September is Pedestrian Safety Month in California and Chief Cochran and the Susanville Police Department are encouraging everyone on Susanville streets to care for one another and to keep pedestrians safe from crashes and injuries.
Based on data projections from the Governors Highway Safety Association, 7,508 pedestrians were killed in traffic crashes in the U.S. in 2022, the highest number since 1981. In California, pedestrian deaths account for more than 25% of all traffic deaths.
To promote the safety of people walking, the SPD will conduct a traffic safety operation this Thursday, September 14th, from 4:00p.m. until midnight.
According to Chief Cochran, officers will be focused on the most dangerous driving behaviors – the ones that put the safety of pedestrians at risk. These violations include speeding, making illegal turns, failing to yield, and running stop signs or signals.
The department offers safe driving and walking tips, including staying off the phone when behind the wheel or walking.
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.
Pedestrians
• Be predictable. Use signalized crosswalks where drivers may anticipate foot traffic.
• Watch for approaching vehicles and practice due care crossing the street. At 30 mph, a driver needs at least 90 feet to stop.
• Make it easier for drivers to see you at night – wear light colors, reflective material and use a flashlight.
• Be careful crossing streets or entering crosswalks at night or on busier streets with higher speed limits.
