South OC Times

Santa Ana, CA (August 29, 2024): September marks Pedestrian Safety Month in California. The Orange County Sheriff’s Department is urging drivers to slow down and remain vigilant for pedestrians on the roads. Increased caution can help protect pedestrians and reduce the risk of crashes and injuries, ensuring walking remains a safe option for community members.

Projections from the Governors Highway Safety Association indicate that 7,318 pedestrians were killed in traffic crashes across the United States in 2023. In California, pedestrian deaths account for more than 27 percent of all traffic-related fatalities, underscoring the need for heightened awareness and safety measures.

“Every step we take towards greater pedestrian safety is a step towards saving lives," said Orange County Sheriff’s Department Sergeant Kyle Ishii. "We want to remind everyone that safety begins with you, whether you're behind the wheel or on foot. Small actions, like slowing down, putting away distractions and yielding at crosswalks, can make a life-saving difference.”

To enhance pedestrian safety, the Orange County Sheriff’s Department will conduct traffic safety operations throughout September targeting dangerous driver behaviors such as speeding, making illegal turns, failing to yield, and running stop signs or signals.

The department also provides tips for safe driving and walking, emphasizing the importance of staying off phones while behind the wheel or walking.

The public is encouraged to share their thoughts on pedestrian safety by participating in the Go Safely Movement survey from the California Office of Traffic Safety at gosafelyca.org.

Funding for distracted driving enforcement is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.