As the city gears up for a spike in two-wheeled traffic this spring, the Glendale Police Department is taking charge by declaring May as Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month. They're on a mission to educate motorists on the importance of sharing the road and are actively reminding them to be extra vigilant to avoid potentially fatal accidents. "Motorcycles may be difficult to spot, so be extra careful before changing lanes," Sergeant Ryan Gunn of the Glendale Police was quoted saying. He stressed that a second glance could be the thin line between a routine commute and a disastrous collision.
The haunting figures from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration paint a grim picture, with 6,218 motorcyclists losing their lives in traffic crashes in 2022 alone. Gunn's caution is backed by the chilly reality that riders are 22 times more likely to die in a crash than their counterparts in cars. The Glendale cops aren't just talking; they're backing their words with action and will be rolling out motorcycle safety enforcement stings throughout May.
When it comes to road safety, it's a two-way street. The authorities aren't just preaching to drivers but to motorcyclists as well. Riders are being urged to don U.S. DOT-compliant helmets and opt for protective gear like leather jackets and non-skid boots. To be seen is to be safe—that's why reflective strips and keeping headlights on during the day are recommended. "Always keep your lights on, even during the day," as per the City of Glendale report.
The shared street ethos extends further with both camps advised against distracted driving and riding under the influence. The Glendale Police Department, boasting a rich heritage since 1906 and a robust team of approximately 250 sworn officers, is not taking any chances. Funding from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, is making this safety push possible. For more insights on their services, those interested can head to GlendaleCA.gov/Police or follow their social media sagas.
