Deputies to Ramp Up Red Light Enforcement in Temecula

TEMECULA, CA - Riverside County sheriff's deputies will be prioritizing traffic stops for red light violations in Temecula over the next few weeks as part of a citywide safety campaign.

Sgt. William Pratt said that red light enforcement will be ramped up at various intersections to get the message across to motorists that it's unacceptable to ignore traffic signals and put other drivers, as well as pedestrians and bicyclists, at risk.

"Traffic collisions occurring because of red light violations often result in severe injuries to those involved," Pratt said.

He cited U.S. Department of Transportation data indicating that "red light runners (are) everyday people -- professionals, blue collar workers, the unemployed, homemakers, parents and young adults."

Almost half of traffic offenders admitted in surveys that they raced through red lights "because they were in a hurry," the sergeant said.

The enforcement campaign will be focused on morning and evening commutes and will emphasize the need for drivers to slow down and obey signals, according to Pratt.

"We hope this effort will result in fewer collisions and a safer commute for our residents and visitors," he said.

The campaign will run until March 15.

- City News Service / Image via Temecula Police Facebook