South OC Times

The Sheriff’s Department will participate in a bicycle and pedestrian safety enforcement operation aimed at educating bicyclists, drivers, and pedestrians on traffic laws, rules, and responsibilities. On Friday, June 21, deputies will be monitoring for violations by bicyclists, drivers, and pedestrians that endanger roadway users. These violations include speeding, making illegal turns, failing to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks, and ignoring stop signs and signals.

Deputies will also address pedestrians crossing streets illegally or failing to yield to drivers with the right of way. Bike riders will be stopped for riding on the wrong side of the road or not complying with stop signs and signals.

Bicycle and pedestrian fatalities are increasing significantly. In 2016, 138 bicyclists and 867 pedestrians were killed on California roads. Pedestrian fatalities have risen nearly 33 percent since 2012, while bicyclist deaths have increased almost 25 percent over the past five years.

Pedestrians are advised to use crosswalks or intersections with stop signs or signals when crossing streets. They should look out for cars backing up, avoid darting between parked cars, make eye contact with drivers, and wear bright clothing during the day or reflective materials at night.

Drivers should wait for pedestrians to cross streets, avoid distractions such as cell phone use, and exercise courtesy and patience. Bicyclists are reminded to always wear helmets; helmets are legally required for those under 18. Bicyclists must travel in the same direction as traffic and adhere to the same requirements as any slow-moving vehicle.

The Sheriff’s Department supports the new OTS public awareness campaign “Go Safely, California.” More information can be found at gosafelyca.org.

Funding for this program is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.