Bicycle, Pedestrian Safety Operation Planned In Concord

From the Concord Police Department: Concord Police Department will take part in a bicycle and pedestrian safety enforcement operation aimed at educating bicyclists, drivers and pedestrians on traffic laws, rules and responsibilities.

On Wednesday May 29, 2019, officers will be looking for violations made by bicyclists, drivers
and pedestrians that put roadway users at risk. These violations include drivers speeding, making
illegal turns, failing to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks, failing to stop for signs and signals or
any other dangerous violation.

Officers will also look for pedestrians who cross the street illegally or fail to yield to drivers who
have the right of way. Bike riders will be stopped when riding on the wrong side of the road, not
complying with stop signs and signals, or other violation of the same traffic laws that apply to
them as drivers.

Bicycle and pedestrian fatalities are rising at an alarming rate. In 2016, 138 bicyclists and 867
pedestrians were killed on California roads. Pedestrian fatalities are up nearly 33 percent from
2012, and the number of bicyclists killed are up nearly 25 percent over the past five years. In
2018, Concord Police Department has investigated 4 fatal and 95 injury collisions involving
bicyclists and pedestrians.

“Whether you are on foot, behind the wheel or on a bike, you play a part in roadway safety,” Sgt.
Roberto Garcia said. “Understanding the rules of the road using all modes of transportation helps
ensure we all get to our destination safely.”

People walking should only cross the street using crosswalks or intersections, preferably with a
stop sign or signal. People on foot should also look for cars backing up and avoid darting
between parked cars, make eye contact with drivers and wear bright clothing during the day and
reflective materials or use a flashlight at night.

Drivers should wait for pedestrians to cross the street, avoid distractions like using a cell phone,
and be courteous and patient. All bike riders are reminded to always wear a helmet; helmets are
required by law for those under 18. Bicyclists must travel in the same direction of traffic and
have the same requirements as any slow moving vehicle.

Concord Police supports the new OTS public awareness campaign, “Go Safely, California.” To
find out more about ways to go safely, visit gosafelyca.org.

Funding for this program is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety,
through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.