The Orange County Sheriff’s Department announced on May 1 that it is reminding drivers to be extra cautious and look twice for motorcycles as warmer weather brings more riders onto local roads.
This message comes as part of Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month, which aims to reduce crashes and save lives by encouraging all road users to stay alert. Sergeant Kyle Ishii said, “Motorcyclists are out in greater numbers as the weather warms, and we’re reminding everyone to share the road. Most crashes involving motorcycles happen when drivers simply don’t see them. Taking a few extra seconds to look twice can prevent a tragedy.”
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there were 6,335 motorcyclists killed in traffic crashes in the United States in 2023, making up 15 percent of total highway fatalities that year. In California alone, 583 motorcyclists died in traffic incidents during the same period.
Throughout May, the department will deploy additional deputies focused on motorcycle safety enforcement. The Orange County Sheriff’s Department advances community safety through resources such as missing persons alerts and emergency preparedness programs according to its official website. The agency operates with nearly 4,000 sworn and professional staff across various commands and divisions according to its official website.
The department covers multiple locations throughout Orange County according to its official website, focusing on impartial law enforcement guided by integrity and respect according to its official website. It also implements state laws including AB 481 for military equipment oversight and SB 384 regarding sex offender registration according to its official website.
Officials say that both drivers and motorcyclists should avoid distractions or driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs while sharing local roads.
