Drivers, Cyclist, Pedestrian Cited During Crosswalk Enforcement

REDLANDS >> Redlands Police Department cited 12 drivers, a bicyclist and a pedestrian during a pedestrian crosswalk safety enforcement detail. Police officers conducted the enforcement detail at various intersections in the downtown business district. A dozen drivers were cited for failure to yield to a pedestrian within a crosswalk. A bicyclist was cited for riding on the wrong side of the road and one pedestrian was cited for jaywalking, or failure to use an available crosswalk while crossing the street. Funding for the enforcement efforts came from a $153,604 Selective Traffic Enforcement Program (STEP) grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, accepted by the City Council in September 2015. The grant covers traffic safety, enforcement and education activities. Pedestrian and bicycle safety 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.”