The Sheriff’s Department in Mission Viejo is preparing to conduct a bicycle and pedestrian safety enforcement operation. This initiative aims to educate all road users, including bicyclists, drivers, and pedestrians, on the importance of adhering to traffic laws and understanding their responsibilities.
Scheduled for Monday, December 9, deputies will focus on identifying violations that compromise the safety of road users. These infractions include speeding by drivers, illegal turns, failure to yield to pedestrians at crosswalks, and ignoring stop signs or signals. Pedestrians crossing streets illegally or not yielding to vehicles with the right of way will also be monitored. Additionally, cyclists riding against traffic flow or disobeying traffic signals will be stopped.
Statistics indicate a concerning rise in bicycle and pedestrian fatalities. In 2016 alone, California roads witnessed the deaths of 138 bicyclists and 867 pedestrians. Pedestrian fatalities have increased by nearly 33 percent since 2012, while cyclist fatalities have surged by approximately 25 percent over five years.
Pedestrians are advised to use crosswalks or intersections with stop signs or signals when crossing streets. It is recommended they remain vigilant for reversing vehicles and avoid darting between parked cars. Making eye contact with drivers and wearing bright clothing during daylight hours are also encouraged practices.
Drivers should exhibit patience by waiting for pedestrians to cross streets fully and avoiding distractions such as cell phone use. Courteous behavior is emphasized alongside adherence to traffic rules.
Bicyclists are reminded of the legal requirement for helmets under the age of 18 and must ride in the same direction as traffic while complying with all vehicle-related regulations.
The Sheriff's Department endorses the "Go Safely, California" campaign launched by OTS. For further information on safe practices, individuals can visit gosafelyca.org.
This program receives funding from a grant provided by the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
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