SANTA MONICA—On September 23, the Santa Monica Police Department announced it will conduct safety operations on September 25, from 5 a.m. to 8 p.m. It has not disclosed the location. Officers will focus on driver actions that endanger pedestrians and bicyclists. Behaviors include making illegal turns, failing to yield to pedestrians or bicyclists, and not respecting their right-of-way, failing to stop at traffic signals or stop signs. The SMPD reminds drivers that bicyclists and pedestrians have the same rights as drivers. A grant from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration funds this operation through the California Office of Traffic Safety.
The SMPD issued advice to improve traffic safety in the city. Drivers should not drive while impaired by drugs or alcohol, to drive safely, and to slow down when approaching intersections. They should also stop to let pedestrians pass at intersections or crosswalks and not block the lane when making
When walking, pedestrians should use crosswalks, avoid walking in front of vehicles, and make themselves visible to motorists, including by wearing bright colors. At night or early in the morning, they should take additional precautions, such as wearing reflective clothing and carrying a flashlight.
Bicycle riders should obey traffic laws. They should take precautions by wearing a helmet and using front and rear lights. While traveling, they should ride in the same direction as cars and obey speed limits. Bicyclists should keep a safe distance from parked vehicles. When possible, use bike lanes; exceptions include when passing where right turns are legally allowed or when turning left.
By Daniel Diquinzio