The Sacramento Police Department will be conducting a Motorcycle Safety Enforcement Operation in an effort to reduce motorcycle related accidents and fatalities as well as educate the community on motorcycle safety and safe interaction with motorcycle traffic on the roadway.

From July 27 through July 29, 2012, the Sacramento Police Department will have officers in various locations throughout the city enforcing traffic violations that often contribute to motorcycle collisions.

According to the Office of Traffic Safety, motorcycle fatalities have been on the rise in California, increasing 175% in the previous decade, rising from 204 killed in 1998 to 560 killed in 2008.

The Sacramento Police Department wants to remind motorcyclists to drive safely and defensively. Motorcyclists are also encouraged to seek training and to obtain proper licensing. All motorists are encouraged to slow down, not drive under the influence and drive within their own limitations.

Riders can get training through the California Motorcyclist Safety Program. Information and training locations are available at http://www.ca-msp.org/ or by calling 1-877-RIDE411 (1-877-743-3411).

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