Walk, Bike Or Roll: LA County Schools Join National Push For Safer Streets

LOS ANGELES, CA — Police and school officials across Los Angeles County encouraged students and families to leave the car behind and take part in Wednesday's National Walk and Roll to School Day, promoting exercise and pedestrian safety.

The annual event highlights "the benefits of exercise and brings attention to the need for safe, accessible walking and biking routes," according to the Long Beach Police Department.

"This day underscores the importance of boosting physical activity and prioritizes the safety of the families in our community," LBPD Commander Jeremy Boshnack said.

The campaign coincides with National Pedestrian Safety Month, a reminder for drivers and pedestrians to take extra caution when driving near pedestrians.

"In Pasadena, walking should always be an easy and safe option for getting around," Pasadena Police Lt. Anthony Russo said in a statement, citing federal data showing that a pedestrian is killed every 72 minutes and one is injured every eight minutes in the U.S.

The Los Angeles Unified School District also urged families to participate, encouraging students to "enjoy the fresh air, get active, and spend a fun time with friends in the morning."

Participants were reminded to plan routes and try to stick to roads with sidewalks or paths.

"If there are no sidewalks, walk facing traffic as far to the left as possible or ride your bike in the same direction as traffic as far on the right-hand side as possible," according to Long Beach police.

Pedestrians and riders were also advised to:

• Use crosswalks, preferably at stop signs or signals, and to cross at street corners if there are unmarked crosswalks;
• Always look left-right-left before crossing the street and make eye contact with drivers before crossing in front of them;
• Never assume a driver can see or has seen you;
• Watch for cars entering or leaving driveways or parking spaces;
• Always wear a helmet when riding or rolling;
• Wear bright clothing during the day and wear reflective materials or use a flashlight when it's dark to increase visibility; and
• Stay alert and undistracted by electronic devices.

The death toll among pedestrians was 1,106 in California in 2023, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

More information is available at walkbiketoschool.org.

City News Service