Police Cite 10 People for Failure to Yield During Crosswalk Enforcement

Redlands Police cited 10 drivers during a recent crosswalk enforcement detail. Four police officers conducted the crosswalk detail Thursday Aug. 20, at three intersections – Cajon and Vine streets, Redlands Boulevard between State and Fifth streets, and Olive Avenue between Cajon and Grant streets. Drivers were cited for failure to yield to a pedestrian within a crosswalk. Two bicycle riders were also cited for traffic violations. Additional crosswalk enforcement efforts are planned in the coming months. Funding for the enforcement efforts came from a $155,410 Selective Traffic Enforcement Program (STEP) grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, accepted by the City Council in September 2014. The grant covers traffic safety, enforcement and education activities. Crosswalk details are conducted to enforce traffic laws and remind drivers that under the California Vehicle Code pedestrians have the right of way at all marked and unmarked crosswalks. Drivers are reminded to observe speed limits, exercise caution and reduce their speed in order to ensure the safety of pedestrians. Drivers may also be cited for passing a vehicle that has stopped to allow pedestrians to cross. Pedestrians are also reminded to exercise caution at all times and especially when crossing the street. Always check for oncoming traffic. Be sure not to make sudden moves into a crosswalk whether marked or unmarked and be sure that drivers can see you. When possible, cross at a signalized intersection and be sure to follow all traffic directions and signals. Pedestrians may be cited when they fail to exercise appropriate caution, deliberately delay traffic or cross outside a marked crosswalk between adjacent signalized intersections. “We all have a responsibility for the safety of ourselves and others when we share the road,” said Police Chief Mark Garcia. “Whether you are a driver, a cyclist or a pedestrian, remaining alert, exercising caution and obeying all traffic laws is the best way to ensure everyone’s safety.”