Pedestrian Crosswalk Safety and Enforcement operation

What:
Pedestrian Crosswalk Safety and Enforcement Operation

When:
September 25, 2012
7 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.

Where:
Reseda Avenue and Dearborn Street

Who:
LAPD Valley Traffic Division Officers
California State University Northridge (CSUN) Police Department Officers

Why:
LAPD Valley Traffic Division Officers, in partnership with the CSUN Police Department, will be conducting a joint operation in an effort to promote pedestrian safety through education and enforcement as it pertains to vehicle and pedestrian safety.  In the Northridge area (LAPD Devonshire Division) there has been a 57 percent increase in traffic collisions between pedestrians and motor vehicles this year.

Both agencies want to remind motorists and pedestrians to be cautious when walking or driving on the streets at all times.  Valley Traffic Division would also like to remind the citizens of the San Fernando Valley of a few traffic safety tips:

PEDESTRIANS

Obey traffic signals such as “Walk/Don’t Walk” signs.
Cross streets at marked crosswalks or intersections if available.
Watch for turning vehicles and make sure the driver sees you before stepping out in front of a vehicle.
Just because one vehicle stops, do not assume other drivers will; visually clear each lane before you proceed.
Wear bright/light-colored clothing and walk in well-lit areas at night.
Be alert to the traffic – constantly look both ways as you cross the street.

DRIVERS

Scan the road ahead for pedestrians.
Do not drive distracted.
Yield to pedestrians in crosswalks whether marked or unmarked.
Watch for pedestrians stepping off the curb when making right or left turns.
Obey the speed limits and slow down.

If you have any questions, please contact LAPD Sergeant Stephen Egan, Valley Traffic Division, Community Traffic Services Unit,  at 818-644-8146.