Oceanside, CA–The Oceanside Police Department will conduct a bicycle and pedestrian safety operation on January 24 aimed at keeping people out exercising or enjoying the outdoors safely.
The operation will be conducted from 5 to 10 a.m. in Oceanside, authorities said in a news release.
Oceanside police recognize the need to protect the public by looking for violations made by bicyclists, drivers, and pedestrians that make roads unsafe.
The violations include drivers speeding, making illegal turns, failing to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks, failing to stop for signs and signals, or any other traffic violation by bike riders or pedestrians.
“Drivers, slow down and allow bicyclists and pedestrians the same access to roads,” Sgt. Rick Davis said. “To protect you and your family, we want to make sure everyone is following rules that keep them safe.”
The safety of bicyclists and pedestrians remains a top priority, Oceanside police says. In 2020, officers investigated 6 deadly and 77 injury collisions involving bicyclists and pedestrians.
Oceanside police offer the following tips when out biking, driving, or walking:
Pedestrians
- Only cross at marked crosswalks or intersections with a stop sign or signal.
- Look for cars backing up. Avoid going between parked cars.
- Make eye contact with drivers. Don’t assume they see you.
- Wear bright clothing during the day and use a flashlight when walking at night.
Drivers
- Wait for pedestrians to cross the street. Be courteous and patient.
- Stay off the phone.
- No speeding. Speed limits are not suggestions.
- Look for pedestrians when backing up, turning at intersections or entering/exiting shopping centers.
Bicyclists
- Always wear a helmet. Helmets are required by law for anyone under 18.
- Bicyclists must travel in the same direction of traffic and have the same requirements as any slow moving vehicle.
Funding for the bicycle and pedestrian safety program is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
