The Riverside County Sheriff’s Department has issued a press release reminding the public that May is Bicycle and Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month.
The message includes a number of tips for drivers, bikers and pedestrians on how to stay safe and share the road.
“The days are longer, and the weather is pleasant, making for ideal conditions to go on a bike ride. Drivers, please share the road so we may all get places safely,” Sgt. Joseph Sinz of the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department said in a May 4 press release.
During the month of May, Temecula is focusing on dangerous driving behaviors that put pedestrians at risk. Specifically, deputies will be looking for violations pertaining to speeding, making illegal turns, failing to yield or provide right of way to bicyclists or pedestrians, or failing to stop when required by signs and signals.
Additionally, the Sheriff’s Department provides three lists of safety reminders for pedestrians, drivers and bicyclists respectively. The department advises pedestrians to use predictable behavior by crossing at crosswalks when available. Pedestrians should be aware of vehicles around them and wear clothing that makes them visible to drivers, especially at night or in the early morning.
Drivers are reminded to obey the speed limit, slow down at intersections and be prepared to stop for people crossing the street at marked and unmarked crosswalks. Bicyclists should follow and obey traffic laws, use appropriate hand signals when turning, yield to pedestrians and ride in bike lanes when available. The department also advises bikers to avoid the “door zone” around parked cars and remain a safe distance away.
On Wednesday, May 11, the department plans to hold a Bicyclists and Pedestrian Enforcement Operation, from 7 a.m. to 12 p.m. in Jurupa Valley city limits. Deputies will be particularly focused on driving violations, which endanger pedestrians, bicyclists and motorcyclists.
The purpose of the operation is to promote public safety awareness by reminding drivers to obey speed limits and watch out for pedestrians. These programs are being funded by the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Meanwhile, in Moreno Valley, through the Moreno Valley Station, Riverside County deputies will be conducting Motorcycle Safety Enforcement Operations, including a program called “Ride to Live.” As part of this program, the Moreno Valley Sheriff’s Station’s Motor Team will offer training to motorcyclists in the area.
Motorcyclists are also reminded to drive safely, ride defensively (as though not visible to drivers) and always keep their lights on — even during the day. Riding safely also means wearing a U.S. Department of Transportation-compliant helmet with eye protection, as well as appropriate sturdy riding clothing, such as leather.
