PASADENA >> Police are planning to crack down on pedestrian-related traffic violations this week.
Beginning Monday, officers will launch a week-long education and enforcement campaign targeting violations by both pedestrians and motorists that contribute to the likelihood of pedestrian-involved collisions, Pasadena police Lt. Pete Hettema said in a written statement.
About 600 pedestrians are killed each year on California roadways, officials said.
“Even one fatality is too many, but Pasadena suffered four pedestrian fatalities in the last 12 months, and each of them could have been prevented if all parties obeyed traffic laws designed to keep pedestrians safe,” Pasadena Police Chief Phillip Sanchez said.
Police reminded motorists and pedestrians alike of several important California laws regarding pedestrians safety:
• Every corner is considered a crosswalk, whether marked or not.
• Drivers may not pass another vehicle stopped at a crosswalk
• Drivers may not pass a school bus that is stopped with red lights flashing on either side of the roadway
• Pedestrians must obey pedestrian signals where provided
• Pedestrians may not begin to cross after a pedestrian signal begins to flash or count down
• When crossing between signalled, controlled intersections, pedestrians must use crosswalks