San Mateo Police Issue Call For Kindness

SAN MATEO, CA — With more cars on the road amid the return to normalcy, San Mateo police have issued a call for kindness.

Police want the public to be aware that the increase in traffic brings with it the potential for accidents, a cause for concern with many walking and cycling outdoors since the city launched its Safe Streets program last year.

Motorists, cyclists and pedestrians alike are being urged to pay extra attention to traffic signals, crosswalks, speed laws and designated lanes.

But residents aren’t just being asked to follow the rules. They're also being asked to show consideration.

“We’re taught to be defensive drivers, but do you know that it also pays to be a courteous driver?” the Police Department wrote on its Facebook page.

“Extending courtesy promotes safety and safety leads to less collisions. Therefore, leading to less risk of injury and/or death caused by impatience, inattentiveness, and/or a blatant disregard for the law.

“Make the effort to avoid participating in negative driving behaviors that affect pedestrians, cyclists, and other drivers for that matter.”

Some of the negative behaviors police are asking motorists not to engage in include nudging pedestrians at crosswalks so they’ll walk faster, tailgating bicyclists, distracted driving and road rage.

Pedestrians are urged to keep their eyes up at all times and make sure they are seen by drivers.

Whether on foot, bike or behind the while, the public is encouraged to communicate politely via eye contact, hand signals or head nods, police said.

“We need to recognize each other and communicate a plan for safe movement on our city streets and roadways. Together, we can reduce the number of collisions in San Mateo,” police said.