South OC Times

Stanton, CA (May 16, 2024) – The Sheriff’s Department has announced its participation in a bicycle and pedestrian safety enforcement operation. The initiative is aimed at educating bicyclists, drivers, and pedestrians about traffic laws, rules, and responsibilities.

On Saturday, May 18, deputies will be on the lookout for violations made by bicyclists, drivers, and pedestrians that could put roadway users at risk. These violations include drivers speeding, making illegal turns, failing to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks, failing to stop for signs and signals or any other dangerous violation.

Deputies will also be vigilant of pedestrians who cross the street illegally or fail to yield to drivers who have the right of way. Bike riders will be stopped when riding on the wrong side of the road, not complying with stop signs and signals or violating any other traffic laws that apply to them as drivers.

The urgency of this operation stems from rising bicycle and pedestrian fatalities. In 2016 alone, 138 bicyclists and 867 pedestrians were killed on California roads. Pedestrian fatalities have surged nearly 33 percent since 2012 while bicyclist deaths have risen almost 25 percent over the past five years.

The Sheriff’s Department advises people walking to only cross streets using crosswalks or intersections where there is a stop sign or signal. They should also look out for cars backing up and avoid darting between parked cars. It is recommended they make eye contact with drivers and wear bright clothing during the day along with reflective materials or use a flashlight at night.

Drivers are urged to wait for pedestrians to cross the street completely before proceeding. They should avoid distractions like using a cell phone while driving and always maintain courtesy and patience on the road. All bike riders are reminded that helmets are mandatory by law for those under 18 years old. Bicyclists must travel in the same direction as traffic and follow the same requirements as any slow-moving vehicle.

The Sheriff’s Department is in support of the new OTS public awareness campaign, “Go Safely, California.” For more information about ways to go safely, visit gosafelyca.org. The program is funded by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.