The Orange County Sheriff’s Department announced on May 1 that it is urging residents to be alert and keep bicyclists safe during National Bicycle Safety Month.
Bicycling serves as both a pastime and a mode of transportation for many Californians, including children commuting to school and older adults staying active. The department said it will focus on increasing awareness about bicycle safety throughout the month.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 1,166 people were killed while riding bicycles on U.S. roads in 2023, with an estimated 49,489 bicyclists injured. In California alone, there were 145 bicyclist fatalities involving motor vehicles last year. “It is important that we keep our bicyclists safe, as they do not have the same protections as drivers and passengers,” said Traffic Bureau Sergeant Kyle Ishii. “People of all ages use bicycles to commute to school, work, and other activities. Bicyclists, like all road users, have the right to safe streets. We encourage drivers and bicyclists to look out for one another and practice safe habits so we may all go safely.”
Throughout May, the department will conduct traffic safety operations targeting driver behaviors that endanger cyclists and pedestrians such as speeding or failing to yield at intersections. The Orange County Sheriff’s Department advances community safety through resources like missing persons alerts and emergency preparedness programs according to the official website at https://www.ocsheriff.gov/.
The department employs nearly 4,000 sworn officers and professional staff across various commands and divisions according to its official website. It operates throughout Orange County in multiple locations according to information provided by its official website. Its law enforcement approach is guided by integrity and respect while focusing on impartial service for community protection according to details available from its official website.
The agency also honors the legacy of early settlers who developed thriving communities from barren land in Orange County according to information found on its official website. Additionally, it implements state laws such as AB 481 regarding military equipment oversight and SB 384 related to sex offender registration according to its official website.
