South OC Times

The Orange County Sheriff’s Department has announced that additional officers will be deployed in Dana Point on Friday, September 5. The focus of the operation will be to monitor and enforce traffic laws among drivers and motorcycle riders.

According to the department, unsafe speed is the leading factor in motorcycle crashes, contributing to about one-third of all such incidents across California. Other significant causes include improper turning, right-of-way violations, driving under the influence, and unsafe lane changes.

To address these risks, authorities are reminding both drivers and motorcyclists to take extra precautions. For drivers, recommended safety measures include checking mirrors and blind spots for motorcycles, using signals when changing lanes, maintaining a safe following distance behind motorcycles, and allowing enough space at intersections before turning.

Motorcycle riders are advised to always wear DOT-compliant helmets and protective gear. The department also suggests adding reflective tape for visibility, keeping headlights on during the day, signaling well in advance before changing lanes, and being alert for turning vehicles. While lane splitting is legal in California, officials caution against doing so at high speeds or in free-flowing traffic.

"Always check twice for motorcycles in your mirrors and blind spots.

Use your signal when changing lanes.

Never follow a motorcycle too closely. Always keep a safe distance.

When at an intersection, allow enough space before turning."

"Always wear a DOT compliant helmet and protective gear.

Consider adding reflective tape to make it easier for other drivers to see you.

Always keep your lights on, even during the day.

Don’t assume drivers see you: signal well in advance before changing lanes and watch for turning vehicles."

Although lane splitting is legal, the practice is not encouraged at high speeds in free-flowing traffic.