To promote bike and pedestrian safety on Malibu roadways, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department on May 7 will be sending deputies to patrol areas were bike and pedestrian collisions are common “in an effort to lower death and injuries,” according to a statement released by the Lost Hills/Malibu Sheriff’s Station.
They will also be monitoring pedestrians—illegal crossing or failure to yield to a driver’s right of way may result in a citation.
Bikers should be wearing helmets; those ages 18 and under are required to wear one by law. Pedestrians can only cross the street at marked crosswalks or at corners.
In an effort to reduce injuries caused by motorcycle collisions, the sheriff’s department is also holding a specialized motorcycle safety enforcement operation on May 11. Patrolling deputies will be on the lookout for violations made by motorists in cars and on motorcycles. They will also be making sure motorists abide by traffic laws.
LA County has seen 1,332 motorcycle-involved crashes in the last three years.
Motorcycle riders are encouraged to “change lanes only when there is ample room, match your speed to surrounding traffic, always wear a DOT compliant helmet and brightly colored, protective clothing, and ride with lights on during daylight hours.”
Meanwhile, drivers are encouraged to “look twice for motorcyclists, especially when entering the roadway, turning or changing lanes.” In addition, they should be aware that motorcycle riders are allowed to ride in the HOV lanes.