Safety First: Police Urge Walkers, Drivers, Cyclists to be Careful

The Pasadena Police Department will conduct a bicycle and pedestrian safety enforcement operation on Friday, August 7, aimed at keeping people who need to go outside safe.

While COVID-19 restrictions require residents to stay home as much as possible, Pasadena police recognize the need to protect the public by looking out for violations made by bicyclists, drivers and pedestrians. These include drivers speeding, making illegal turns, failing to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks, failing to stop for signs and signals, and other violations. 

During the enforcement operation, officers will also look for pedestrians who cross the street illegally or fail to yield to drivers who have the right of way, according to a police advisory. Bike riders will also be stopped when they ride on the wrong side of the road, don’t comply with stop signs and signals, and commit other traffic violations.

“I receive many complaints about individuals driving unsafe all around our city,” said police Lt. Max Dahlstein. “Our focus for this safety operation is to keep people safe. Everybody benefits when people follow traffic laws and drive responsibly.”

The safety of bicyclists and pedestrians remains a top priority for the department. This year, police have investigated 44 injury collisions involving bicyclists and pedestrians.

Police are offering some safety tips for pedestrians, drivers and bicyclists.  

Pedestrians should only cross at marked crosswalks or intersections with a stop sign or signal, look out for cars backing up, and avoid going between parked cars. Walkers should also make eye contact with drivers, and wear brightly colored clothing during the day. They should also use a flashlight when walking at night.

Drivers should wait for pedestrians to cross the street and be courteous and patient, stay off the phone, follow the speed limit, and look out for pedestrians when backing up or turning.

Bicyclists are advised to always wear a helmet, as required by law for anyone under 18. They should also travel in the same direction of traffic and adhere to the same requirements as any slow-moving vehicle.

“Everyone who is out is reminded to practice physical distancing measures when feasible, staying at least six feet away from others,” the advisory states. 

Funding for the safety enforcement program is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).