Police Cite 11 Drivers

REDLANDS>> Redlands Police cited 11 drivers during a recent crosswalk safety enforcement detail in the downtown business district, according to a news release. Between 7 a.m. and noon on Monday, March 6, officers cited 11 drivers for failure to yield to a pedestrian within a crosswalk. The enforcement operation concentrated on the downtown business district, on Redlands Boulevard at State and 7th streets; Cajon Street at Vine; and Orange Street at Oriental Avenue. No violations by pedestrians or cyclists were observed during the enforcement operation. Police plan additional enforcement operations in the coming weeks. “We all have a responsibility for the safety of ourselves and others when we share the road,” said Chief of Police Mark A. 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.” Funding for the enforcement efforts came from a $115,000 Selective Traffic Enforcement Program (STEP) grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, accepted by the City Council in October 2016. The grant covers traffic safety, enforcement and education activities. Pedestrian and bicycle safety 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.