South OC Times

The Sheriff's Department in Dana Point, California, will conduct a bicycle and pedestrian safety enforcement operation on November 25. The initiative aims to educate bicyclists, drivers, and pedestrians about traffic laws and responsibilities.

Deputies will monitor for violations by all road users that could endanger others. This includes drivers who speed, make illegal turns, or fail to yield to pedestrians at crosswalks. Pedestrians crossing streets illegally or not yielding to vehicles with the right of way will also be scrutinized. Cyclists will be stopped for riding on the wrong side of the road or ignoring stop signs and signals.

Statistics show an increase in fatalities among cyclists and pedestrians. In 2016 alone, 138 cyclists and 867 pedestrians lost their lives on California roads. Pedestrian deaths have risen nearly 33 percent since 2012, while cyclist fatalities have increased by almost 25 percent over five years.

Pedestrians are advised to use crosswalks or intersections with stop signs or signals when crossing streets. They should remain vigilant for reversing cars and avoid sudden movements between parked vehicles. Making eye contact with drivers and wearing bright clothing during the day or reflective materials at night is recommended.

Drivers are encouraged to wait for pedestrians to cross safely, minimize distractions such as cell phone use, and exercise patience. Cyclists should always wear helmets—mandatory for those under 18—and ride in the same direction as traffic while adhering to similar rules as slow-moving vehicles.

The Sheriff's Department endorses the "Go Safely, California" campaign by OTS. More information can be found at gosafelyca.org.

This program receives funding from a grant provided by the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.