CHP Plans Crackdown Around Temecula, Murrieta Schools

TEMECULA, CA — CHP officials are warning those in the unincorporated county areas near Temecula and Murrieta that they'll be out in full force Wednesday morning to enforce school zone safety laws. The agency says they are holding "a special enforcement and education day."

Bella Vista Middle School in the Temecula Valley Unified School District and Mails Elementary School and Mcelhinney Middle School, both in the Murrieta Valley Unified School District, will be under the watchful eye of CHP units beginning at 7:30 a.m.

"The CHP would like to remind everyone to drive safely through school zones," California Highway Patrol Officer Mike Lassig said. "Drivers must watch their speed and refrain from being distracted with cell phones and other dangerous driving behaviors."

In addition, officers will be cracking down on jay walkers and bicyclists who stray outside marked pathways, Lassig said. Bicyclists and scooter riders also be wearing a helmet if they are under 18.

"Please watch for pedestrians and bicyclists and use caution at and near crosswalks," he said.

Citations will be issued to violators.

"The CHP is committed to doing our part to keep the community safe," Lassig said. "We urge every member of the community to be safe and follow the rules of the road."

— City News Service contributed to this report / Patch file photo by Renee Schiavone