As California kicks off Pedestrian Safety Month this September, the Turlock Police Department is urging drivers to slow down, eliminate distractions, and keep a watchful eye out for people traveling on foot.

The safety campaign arrives amid alarming traffic data. In 2024 alone, 1,090 people were struck and killed while walking in California, accounting for a staggering 28% of all traffic fatalities across the state. Because pedestrians lack the physical protections of a vehicle, even a slight increase in driving speed drastically elevates the severity of injuries and the risk of death in a crash.

“Everyone deserves to get where they’re going safely, no matter how they choose to travel,” said Sergeant Jason Watson of the Turlock Police Department. “Drivers have an important responsibility to help keep people walking safe. By staying alert, reducing speed, and paying extra attention in areas with more foot traffic, we can help prevent collisions and make every trip safer for everyone.”

To combat dangerous driving habits, Turlock police officers will be conducting targeted traffic safety operations throughout September. Enforcement will focus strictly on violations that put pedestrians at risk, including speeding, making illegal turns, running stop signs or traffic signals, and failing to yield to people in crosswalks.

The Turlock Police Department shared several essential safety tips to keep the community safe:

Safety Tips for Drivers

• Watch the speedometer: Know the speed limit and slow down ahead of intersections.
• Yield the right-of-way: Be prepared to stop for pedestrians at both marked and unmarked crosswalks.
• Stay focused and sober: Never drive impaired. Avoid distractions like eating, intense conversation, or using mobile devices.
• Adjust for visibility: Exercise extra caution at night and during poor weather conditions like rain or fog.

Safety Tips for Pedestrians

• Use crosswalks: Cross at marked intersections where drivers expect foot traffic, and make eye contact before stepping into the street.
• Stay on the path: Always walk on sidewalks. If a street lacks a sidewalk, walk on the shoulder facing oncoming traffic.
• Be seen at night: Increase visibility by wearing bright colors, using reflective gear, or carrying a flashlight.
• Disconnect while crossing: Avoid wearing headphones or talking on the phone when crossing the street.

Funding for this vital safety initiative is provided via a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Residents looking for more resources can visit the state's official safety portal at www.gosafelyca.org.