BULLHEAD CITY–Motorcycle enthusiasts will be roaring into the community today as the 2018 Laughlin River Run gets underway.

With an expected 40,000 bikers sharing the roadways over the next four days, local law enforcement agencies are urging motorists, residents and visitors to take in the activities in a safe manner. Several activities are planned from today to Sunday, April 29 all across the Tri-state region.

“Our roadways, particularly Highway 95, will be very congested,” said Bullhead City Police Department spokeswoman Emily Fromelt. “Due to the expected higher volume of traffic, the police department will increase patrols as an effort to deter criminal activity and to help make the weekend as safe as possible for everyone.”

Formelt said drivers should always check surrounding traffic by looking before changing lanes or turning because all automobiles have a “blind spot” when you only use the mirrors.

“To help the protection of riders, wearing a helmet at all times is strongly suggested. Although wearing helmets is not required in Arizona for adults, it is required for children under 18 years,” Fromelt added.

Motorcyclists should expect full enforcement of Nevada and California mandatory helmet laws in those jurisdictions.

“Unfortunately, many motorcyclists suffer life threatening and often fatal head injuries in collisions,” she said. “But, a D.O.T. (Department of Transportation) approved helmet can prevent, or lessen those injuries. Remember, splitting lanes–motorcycles riding in between cars–is illegal in Arizona and eye protection is required.”

Formelt said curfew hours in Bullhead City for juveniles will remain the same: children under the age of 14 years–10 p.m. to 5 a.m.; children over 14  years and under 18 years on weekdays is Midnight to 5 a.m.; and children over 14 years and under 18 years on weekends is 1 a.m. to 5 a.m.