Watch out for motorcyclists (the police are out today)

STOCKTON — The Stockton Police Department will conduct a motorcycle safety enforcement operation today in an effort to reduce deaths and injuries. Extra officers will patrol areas frequented by motorcyclists and where motorcycle crashes happen most frequently.

Officers will be cracking down on speeding, illegal turns and those under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

In two years through 2013, 102 Stockton motorcycle riders were injured in traffic collisions and three were killed while riding. Alcohol was a factor in Stockton collisions in which eight riders were injured and two were killed.

Police also urge motorists to be aware of riders, who can be less visible than vehicles on roadways. They also remind motorists that lane splitting is legal as long as it’s not done recklessly.