Pacifica PD Cracking Down On Drivers, Bicyclists In Special Ops

PACIFICA, CA — Pacifica police this month are cracking down on those who commit traffic violations that can potentially lead to bicycle injuries, or even deaths. The agency announced that "bicycle safety traffic enforcement operations" are planned throughout May.

Police said that as bicycle fatalities are rising throughout California, they are launching special patrols to crack down on motorists and bicyclists who violate laws "meant to protect all roadway users."

"The department has mapped out locations from over the past three years where bicycle involved collisions have occurred and noted the violations that led to those crashes," police said in a news release. "Officers will be looking for violations made by drivers and bike riders alike that can lead to life changing injuries."

Pacifica police issued the following safety advice:

• ‘Share the road’ with bicyclists
• Be courteous; California law now mandates at least three feet of clearance when passing a bike riders
• Look for cyclists before opening a car door or pulling out from a parking space
• Yield to cyclists at intersections and as directed by signs and signals
• Be especially watchful for riders when making turns, either left or right

Bicyclists:

• Wear properly fitted bicycle helmets every time they ride. If under 18 years of age, it’s the law
• A helmet is the single most effective way to prevent head injury resulting from a bicycle crash
• Riders are considered vehicle operators; they are required to obey the same rules of the road as other vehicle operators, including obeying traffic signs, signals, and lane markings.
• When cycling in the street, cyclists must ride in the same direction as traffic.
• Bicyclists should increase their visibility to drivers by wearing fluorescent or brightly colored clothing during the day, and at dawn and dusk
• To be noticed when riding at night, the law requires a front light and a red reflector to the rear
• For additional safety, use a flashing rear light, and use retro-reflective tape or markings on equipment or clothing

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