Redlands police highlight bicycle safety during National Bicycle Safety Month

REDLANDS, Calif. — The Redlands Police Department is encouraging drivers and bicyclists to stay alert and share the road during National Bicycle Safety Month in May.

From children riding to school to adults commuting or staying active, bicycling remains a common form of transportation and recreation throughout California. Police officials said increased awareness from all road users can help prevent serious injuries and fatalities.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 1,166 bicyclists were killed on U.S. roads in 2023, and an estimated 49,489 were injured. In California, 145 bicyclists were killed in motor vehicle traffic crashes in 2023.

“It is important that we keep our bicyclists safe, as they do not have the same protections as drivers and passengers,” Sgt. Jeffrey Frisch said. “People of all ages use bicycles to commute to school, work, and other activities. Bicyclists, like all road users, have the right to safe streets. We encourage drivers and bicyclists to look out for one another and practice safe habits so we may all go safely.”

The department offered several safety reminders for both drivers and bicyclists.

Drivers are encouraged to slow down, obey speed limits and use extra caution near intersections, bike lanes and crosswalks. Police also remind motorists to check carefully for bicyclists before turning or opening vehicle doors near streets or bike paths.

California law requires drivers to change lanes when possible while passing bicyclists and to provide at least 3 feet of clearance. Drivers are also urged to avoid distracted or impaired driving.

Bicyclists are encouraged to use lights at night and wear properly secured helmets, which significantly reduce the risk of head injury in a crash. Riders should travel in the same direction as traffic, follow the rules of the road and yield to pedestrians in marked and unmarked crosswalks.

Funding for the bicycle safety program is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.