Temecula CHP Plans Crackdown Near SWR Schools

FRENCH VALLEY, CA — California Highway Patrol officers on Wednesday will be cracking down on motorists in the French Valley area who speed through school zones, ignore people waiting at crosswalks and commit other traffic violations that could lead to injuries to pedestrians and bicyclists, the agency announced Monday.

CHP Officer Mike Lassig said the safety enforcement campaign will be focused around four local schools: Alamos and Mails elementary schools, as well as Bella Vista and McElhinny middle schools.

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

Lassig also shared the following reminders; things that CHP officers will be cracking down on come Wednesday:

• Please watch for pedestrians and bicyclists and use caution at and near crosswalks.
• Children under the age of 18 are required to always wear a helmet when riding a bicycle or scooter.
• Pedestrians are also required to obey all traffic laws and use designated crosswalks when walking to school.

Patrol officers will be monitoring traffic at each location between 7:30 a.m. and 4 p.m., according to Lassig.

Motorists will be the first priority, but officers will also issue citations to jay-walkers who don't use marked cross-walks, Lassig said.

"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."

Funding for the operation comes from state and federal grants.

— City News Service contributed to this report / Image courtesy CHP - Temecula Area