By Rylie Friesen-
Citing a “dramatic increase” in pedestrian deaths and injuries across the state in the past decade, the Citrus Heights Police Department is deploying additional officers on the streets to be on the lookout for unsafe drivers and pedestrians during the month of September.
According to a press release, police will be on the lookout for violations including failure to stop for signs or signals, illegal turns, speeding, failure to yield, and not crossing in designated crossing areas or crosswalks for pedestrians.
“More people are out walking, exercising and doing what they can to spend a little time outdoors after spending so much time inside staying at home,” said Shaun Gualco, a Citrus Heights police sergeant. “Looking out for one another is the least we can do during these difficult times.”
Since 2009, police said there has been a “dramatic increase” in the number of pedestrians killed or injured on roadways in California, with pedestrians now accounting for nearly 25% of all roadway deaths, the press release states.
The Citrus Heights Police Department offers the following ways people can be safe on the road, whether driving or walking:
For Pedestrians:
- Ditch the distractions. Keep your eyes up and phones down, especially when crossing the street.
- Always use marked crosswalks, preferably at stop signs or signals.
- Make eye contact and nod or wave at drivers. A quick nod or wave is an easy way to let a driver know you see them, and they see you.
- Be extra careful crossing streets or entering crosswalks at night when it is harder to see. Get in the habit of walking with a flashlight or wearing a reflective vest so it is easier for drivers to spot you.
- Be extra careful crossing streets or entering crosswalks at night when it is harder to see. Get in the habit of walking with a flashlight or wearing a reflective vest so it is easier for drivers to spot you.
For Drivers:
- Slow down on busy streets and at intersections.
- Avoid distractions, which includes cell phones, eating, using in-dash touch screens, or turning to talk to passengers.
- Be extra careful approaching crosswalks. Be prepared to stop for pedestrians. Stop prior to the crosswalk.
- Try to avoid blocking the crosswalk when making a right-hand turn.
- Have your headlights on and slow down at night when pedestrians are difficult to see.
