SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. – The South Lake Tahoe Police Department is reminding drivers to always look twice for bicycles and motorcycles. With the arrival of warmer weather, more people are taking to the roads on two wheels, making it essential for everyone to stay alert to help reduce crashes and save lives.

“Bicyclists and motorcyclists are out in greater numbers as the weather warms, and we’re reminding everyone to share the road,” Sergeant John Spaeth said. “All road users have the right to safe streets. We encourage drivers and bicyclists to look out for one another and practice safe habits, so we may all go safely. 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, 1,166 people killed while riding a bike, and an estimated 49,489 bicyclists injured in traffic crashes in the U.S. in 2023. In California, 583 motorcyclists and 145 bicyclists were killed in motor vehicle traffic crashes in 2023.

May is National Bicycle Safety Month and Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month. The South Lake Tahoe Police Department is urging everyone to be alert to keep all road users safe.

The South Lake Tahoe Police Department suggests the following safety tips for drivers, motorcyclists, and bicyclists:

Drivers

  • Slow down and follow the speed limit. Be careful traveling through intersections.
  • Look carefully for bicyclists and pedestrians before making a turn or opening a car door near streets or bike paths.
  • Be patient when traveling behind a bicyclist and give them space when passing. California law requires drivers to change a lane, when possible, to pass bicyclists and always pass with at least 3 feet of space.
  • Always check mirrors and blind spots before changing lanes.
  • Do not follow a motorcycle too closely. Always keep a safe distance.
  • If you see a motorcycle with a signal on, be careful. Be sure that the rider is turning before moving ahead.

Motorcyclists

  • Always wear a U.S. DOT-compliant helmet with eye protection.
  • Wear leather or other sturdy clothing such as a jacket, pants, boots with nonskid soles and gloves. Add reflective strips or decals to your clothing and motorcycle to make it easier for other drivers to see you.
  • Ride defensively. Don’t assume a driver can see you. Avoid riding in a driver’s blind spot.
  • Always keep your lights on, even during the day.

Bike Riders

  • Use lights at night.
  • Although not required for riders 18 and older, always wear a properly secured helmet. Helmets significantly reduce the chance of a head injury in the event of a crash.
  • Bicyclists must travel in the same direction of traffic and have the same requirements as any slow-moving vehicle.
  • Yield to pedestrians, just as a driver would. Pedestrians have the right-of-way within marked or unmarked crosswalks at intersections.

Lastly, both drivers and riders should never drive/ride distracted or under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.

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