LOCAL HAZARD TRAFFIC ADVISORY FOR NB SDGO AREA
Four shipmates have recently been involved in motor vehicle mishaps in the hills near Julian, CA., notably on Hwy 79 during the week of 5 Oct 2013. The three motorcycle riders involved had attended the Basic Rider Course, but two of the riders had just completed this class within the last two months, and had not yet completed Level 2 training. 1. Rider drifted across the divider line while cornering and was struck by an oncoming vehicle. 2. Rider was following a shipmate’s car as both attempted to pass slower vehicles while approaching a blind curve. The driver was struck by an oncoming car and the rider ran into his buddy’s car as it spun out of control. 3. Rider was involved in an accident with no other vehicles near Julian. This rider had completed Level 1 and Level 2 training within the last year. While the report makes no mention of how the mishap occurred, most single motorcycle accidents happen while riding through a curve. Hwy 79 is not the only concern; other popular highways are San Diego County Routes S6, S7 and State Routes 56, 57, 76, 78 and 79. S6 is one of the most popular and most dangerous where it runs from the junction of Rt. 76 to the summit of Palomar Mountain. These highways lie within the Cuyamaca Rancho State Park, Palomar Mountain State Park and the AnzaBorrego State Park and include Wildcat Canyon Road, Old Julian Highway, Otay Lakes Road, Banner Grade, Mesa Grande and Sunrise Highway. These highways are favorites because of the scenery and winding curves, but are also dangerous to inattentive or overconfident riders and drivers who do not recognize the hairpin, blind, and decreasing radius curves until they are in trouble. Riders and drivers should use the following guidelines to remain safe while still enjoying these scenic roads; 1. Be aware of cautionary signage warning of curves and speed limits, as well as roadway conditions. 2. Ride within your own comfort zone. Public roads have too many potential hazards to use them as closed course race tracks. 3. Build your riding (and driving) skills through continuing education. The more training, the more competent the rider / driver. Contact your command MSR for training guidance. 4. Never put your life on the line by drinking and driving (especially when on a motorcycle).