San Mateo Police Conduct Motorcycle Safety Campaign

The San Mateo Police Department this weekend is conducting an education and enforcement campaign to reinforce safe practices among motorcyclists.

From Friday through Sunday, officers will be out in force to ensure motorcyclists are behaving safely, and to hold careless riders and unobservant motorists accountable for unsafe driving.

Extra officers will be on duty patrolling areas frequented by motorcyclists and where motorcycle crashes occur, San Mateo Police Sgt. Dave Norris said. They will be cracking down on traffic violations made by motorcyclists as well as other vehicle drivers that can lead to motorcycle collisions, injuries and fatalities. 

Typical primary collision factors for motorcycle-involved injury collisions include driving under the influence, unsafe speed and right of way violations.

Other violations related to motorcycle safety are following too closely, unsafe lane changes, and improper turning, both by motorcyclists and other drivers.   

SMPD is also reminding all motorists to always be alert and watch out for motorcycles, especially when turning and changing lanes.   

Motorcycle fatalities dropped 37 percent from 2008 to 2010, but rose nearly 18 percent in 2011. Operations like this are aimed at curbing any more rises in motorcycle deaths and sending the numbers back downward.   

The message to all drivers and motorcyclists is: share in the responsibility and do your part by safely “sharing the road.” Riders can get training through the California Motorcyclist Safety Program. Information and training locations are available at www.CA-msp.org or 1-877 RIDE 411 or 1-877-743-3411.   

Funding for this program is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Safety Tips for Riders – From Allstate.com:

• Always wear a helmet that fits right. Pick one that has the DOT label, which shows that it meets federal safety standards.
• Know your bike's limits.
• Stick to the speed limit.
• Don't tailgate other vehicles.
• Use your signals.
• Be respectful of other drivers. Don't weave through traffic or drive on the shoulder.
• Make sure other drivers can see you. Don't ride in blind spots and always use your headlights.
• Brake smart. Use both brakes at the same time, slow and steady.

SMPD Traffic Unit – Important Phone Numbers:

Questions about Traffic Related Issues or Parking?

Contact SMPD’s Traffic Unit – 650-522-7740

Report Abandoned or Non-Operational Vehicles Parked on San Mateo Streets…

SMPD Abandoned Vehicle Hotline – 650-522-7766

As always, IF YOU SEE SOMETHING, SAY SOMETHING – If you see ANY in-progress crime, accident, or suspicious activity, please contact the police department immediately via 911.

SMPD Dispatch Non-Emergency Number – 650-522-7700