Look Twice: High Gas Prices and Warmer Weather Lead to Surge in Valley Motorcyclists

As warmer weather arrives and gas prices in California continue to hover near record highs—averaging roughly $5.84 per gallon this April—many Coachella Valley residents are turning to motorcycles as their primary means of transportation. This surge in riders has prompted the Riverside County Sheriff's Office to issue a critical reminder: "Look Twice" to save a life.

For NBC Palm Springs reporter Thalia Hayden, this message hits close to home. Hayden shared that her own father suffered a traumatic brain injury following a motorcycle accident when she was 17 years old. The experience not only made her acutely aware of the dangers on the road but inspired her career in journalism to help prevent others from becoming a headline.

"My father was a news story, and I don't want anyone out there to become one as well," Hayden said.

Law enforcement officials note that while riding a motorcycle is a risk many are willing to take for the savings at the pump, both drivers and riders must stay alert to reduce crashes. Motorcyclists are often smaller and appear further away than they actually are, making it essential for drivers to give them extra time and space.

The Riverside County Sheriff's Office offers the following safety tips:

For Drivers:

- Always check mirrors and blind spots before changing lanes.

- Never follow a motorcycle too closely; maintain a safe distance.

- Take a few extra seconds to look twice at intersections.

For Motorcyclists:

- Always wear a DOT-approved helmet and protective gear.

- Ride defensively and never assume a driver can see you.

- Keep your lights on at all times, even during the day, to increase visibility.

With May being Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month, deputies from the Palm Desert Station will be keeping a close eye on the roads to ensure everyone gets home safely.

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