West LA Times

The Santa Monica Police Department (SMPD) has announced plans to conduct a Bike & Pedestrian Safety Enforcement Operation on March 18, 2024. The operation will focus on enforcing laws related to motorists, pedestrians, and bicyclists to reduce collisions and enhance safety on the roads.

According to the SMPD, the enforcement efforts will target areas with a history of pedestrian and bike collisions, aiming to address the violations that have contributed to these incidents. Officers will be deployed to patrol areas where bike and pedestrian traffic is high, with a specific focus on behaviors that can result in serious injuries or fatalities.

The enforcement operation is scheduled to take place on Monday, March 18, 2024, between 6:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m. In preparation for the operation, the SMPD has shared safety tips for pedestrians, drivers, and bicyclists to promote safer road practices.

Pedestrians are advised to be predictable, visible, and cautious when crossing streets, especially at night or in busy areas. Drivers are reminded to obey speed limits, yield to pedestrians at crosswalks, and never drive impaired. Bicyclists are encouraged to follow traffic laws, use lights at night, and yield to pedestrians in crosswalks.

In light of the upcoming safety operation, the SMPD emphasizes the importance of mutual respect and vigilance among all road users. As one pedestrian aptly stated, "We all have places to be and not everyone gets there by car. Bicyclists and pedestrians have the same rights to the road but face even more risk without the protections vehicles have. We should all be looking out for one another."

By promoting awareness and adherence to traffic laws, the SMPD aims to create a safer environment for all individuals using the roads in Santa Monica.