The Riverside County Sheriff’s Office – San Jacinto Station is highlighting September as Pedestrian Safety Month in California. The department is urging drivers to slow down and stay alert for pedestrians on the roads, emphasizing that extra caution can help reduce crashes and injuries.
Recent projections from the Governors Highway Safety Association indicate that 7,148 pedestrians died in traffic crashes across the United States in 2024. In California, pedestrian fatalities account for more than 24 percent of all traffic-related deaths.
“Every step we take towards greater pedestrian safety is a step towards saving lives,” said Corporal Ray Cortez. “We want to remind everyone that safety begins with you, whether you’re behind the wheel or on foot. Small actions, like slowing down, putting away distractions and yielding at crosswalks can make a life-saving difference.”
Officials note that pedestrians are more vulnerable than vehicle occupants, with higher speeds greatly increasing fatality risks in collisions.
As part of Pedestrian Safety Month efforts, the San Jacinto Station will hold a traffic safety operation on Wednesday, September 10th. The event will focus on dangerous driver behaviors such as speeding, illegal turns, failing to yield and running stop signs or signals.
The department encourages both drivers and pedestrians to avoid using phones while traveling and offers additional resources at www.gosafelyca.org.
This program receives funding from a grant provided by the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
For further information or media inquiries, contact the Media Information Bureau. Those interested in employment opportunities with the Sheriff’s Office can visit joinrso.org or call 1-888-Join-RSD.
