RivCo Deputies To Patrol For Dangerous Driving Behaviors Throughout September

RIVERSIDE, CA — This month, Riverside County deputies will be on the lookout for drivers violating traffic laws and exhibiting dangerous driving behaviors in observance of Pedestrian Safety Month.

The Riverside County Sheriff’s Office’s will conduct a traffic safety sting across various cities from Sept. 1 through Sept. 30, upping patrols to look for violations including speeding, making illegal turns, failing to yield and running stop signs or signals.

In 2024 alone, 7,148 pedestrians were killed in traffic crashes across the nation, according to projections from the Governors Highway Safety Association. Just in California, pedestrian deaths make up more than 24 percent of all traffic-related deaths, according to the Riverside County Sheriff's Department.

“Every step we take towards greater pedestrian safety is a step towards saving lives," The Riverside County Sheriff’s Office Sgt. Jared Hansen said. "We want to remind everyone that safety begins with you, whether you’re behind the wheel or on foot. Small actions, like slowing down, putting away distractions and yielding at crosswalks can make a life-saving difference.”

The department urges that pedestrians do not have the same level of protection that drivers do. A difference of just 15 mph — like increasing 20 mph to 35 mph — "significantly" increases the likelihood of a person dying if struck.

The Riverside County Sheriff's Department issued the following driving and walking tips to stay safe:

Drivers

• Do not speed and slow down at intersections. Be prepared to stop for pedestrians at marked and unmarked crosswalks.
• Avoid blocking crosswalks while waiting to make a right-hand turn.
• Never drive impaired.
• Avoid distractions such as texting or eating while driving. Keep your focus on the road.

Pedestrians

• Be predictable. Use signalized crosswalks where drivers may anticipate foot traffic.
• Look both ways and make eye contact with drivers before crossing the street.
• Make it easier for drivers to see you at night – consider wearing bright colors, reflective material or using a flashlight.
• Be careful crossing streets or entering crosswalks at night or on busier streets with higher speed limits.
• Keep your eyes up, and your phone down.