West LA Times

The Santa Monica Police Department (SMPD) has announced plans to conduct a Bike & Pedestrian Safety Enforcement Operation on March 23rd, 2024. The operation will focus on enforcing laws related to motorists, pedestrians, and bicyclists in order to reduce collisions and improve safety on the roads.

According to the SMPD, the enforcement efforts will target areas where pedestrian and bike collisions are frequent, with a specific focus on violations that have led to these incidents. Officers will be actively patrolling locations where bike and pedestrian traffic is high, aiming to prevent accidents and injuries by enforcing traffic laws.

"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," emphasized Pedestrians.

Drivers are reminded to follow speed limits, yield to pedestrians at crosswalks, and avoid blocking intersections. Additionally, they are urged to never drive impaired for the safety of themselves and others. Bicyclists are advised to obey traffic laws, use proper signaling, wear helmets, and be cautious of parked cars to avoid accidents.

The SMPD's Bike & Pedestrian Safety Enforcement Operation is scheduled to take place on March 23rd, 2024, between 6:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m. The initiative aims to raise awareness about road safety for all road users and reduce the number of collisions involving pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorists.