by Carl Baker on 2015-09-16

Redlands Police cited 13 drivers during two crosswalk enforcement details this month. Police officers conducted crosswalk and bicycle enforcement details on Friday, Sept. 4, and Wednesday, Sept. 9, at intersections on Redlands Boulevard between Orange Street and Citrus Avenue; on Olive Avenue between Eureka and Cajon streets; and on Cajon Street between Citrus and Olive avenues. Eight drivers were cited on Sept. 4 for failure to yield to a pedestrian within a crosswalk. Five drivers were cited on Sept. 9. No violations by cyclists were observed during the details. Funding for the enforcement efforts came from a $155,410 Selective Traffic Enforcement Program (STEP) grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, accepted by the City Council in September 2014. The grant covers traffic safety, enforcement and education activities. Crosswalk details are conducted to enforce traffic laws and remind drivers that under the California Vehicle Code pedestrians have the right of way at all marked and unmarked crosswalks. Drivers are reminded to observe speed limits, exercise caution and reduce their speed in order to ensure the safety of pedestrians. Drivers may also be cited for passing a vehicle that has stopped to allow pedestrians to cross. Pedestrians are also reminded to exercise caution at all times and especially when crossing the street. Always check for oncoming traffic. Be sure not to make sudden moves into a crosswalk whether marked or unmarked and be sure that drivers can see you. When possible, cross at a signalized intersection and be sure to follow all traffic directions and signals. Pedestrians may be cited when they fail to exercise appropriate caution, deliberately delay traffic or cross outside a marked crosswalk between adjacent signalized intersections. “We all have a responsibility for the safety of ourselves and others when we share the road,” said Police Chief Mark Garcia. “Whether you are a driver, a cyclist or a pedestrian, remaining alert, exercising caution and obeying all traffic laws is the best way to ensure everyone’s safety.”