Newport Beach Police to Look Out for Unsafe Drivers and Cyclists

NEWPORT BEACH, CA Newport Beach Police will be on the lookout for careless drivers, pedestrians, cyclists Wednesday in areas of the city that have experienced a lot of crashes.

The Bicycle and Pedestrian Safety Operation is one of three scheduled this month, including on one Saturday and next Wednesday.

“Extra officers will be on duty patrolling areas that are frequented by bicyclists and pedestrians, and where recent traffic collisions have occurred, in an effort to reduce injuries. Education and enforcement will be targeted at drivers, bicyclists, and pedestrians alike,” Newport Beach Department Spokeswoman Jennifer Manzella said in a written release. “The officers will be focused on specific offenses including driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, speeding, making illegal turns, failing to stop for signs and signals, and any other dangerous activities.”

Drivers who fail to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks, or when pedestrians fail to yield to drivers who have the right of way, will be cited. Citations will also be issued to bicyclists who fail to follow the same traffic laws that apply to motorists, and to drivers who fail to share the road safely with bicyclists.

“Bicycle riders are reminded to always wear a helmet; those under the age of 18 are required to wear a helmet by law,” said Manzella. “Pedestrians should only cross the street in marked crosswalks or at corners.”

The Newport Beach Police Department has investigated 14 fatal collisions involving pedestrian and bicyclists during the past three years. In 2013, 701 pedestrians and 141 bicyclists were killed statewide, accounting for more than 28% of all traffic fatalities.