05/14/2026
🏍️May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month🏍️
Novato Police reminds drivers to always look twice for motorcycles. With the arrival of warmer weather, more motorcycles are taking to the roads, making it essential for everyone to stay alert to help reduce crashes and save lives.
“Motorcyclists are out in greater numbers as the weather warms, and we’re reminding everyone to share the road, Sgt. Trevor Hall said. “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 U.S. in 2023, representing 15 percent of total highway fatalities for that year. In California, 583 motorcyclists were killed in 2023.
To help keep our riders safe, Novato Police is conducting traffic enforcement operations throughout the month, focusing on the leading causes of motorcycle crashes. As a result, 28 motorists were cited, 1 was arrested for driving on a suspended license with 2 warrants, and 1 e-motorcycle rider was cited for riding without a license or insurance and the e-motorcycle was towed.
Drivers
🚗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.
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 T
