Full Notification

Turlock, California – October is National Pedestrian Safety Month and the Turlock Police Department encourages the public to remember that everyone is a pedestrian.

“Whether in a parking lot, crosswalk, or intersection, we are all pedestrians,” said Lieutenant Russ Holeman.

“Always be aware and look for pedestrians. We want those who are out walking to be safe and feel safe when traveling.”

In an effort to promote a safe walking environment in our community, the Turlock Police Department will focus on locations with a higher number of incidents of vehicle crashes involving pedestrians. On October 24, 2020, Officers will monitor crosswalks for drivers and pedestrians who fail to yield the right-of-way or other violations that put pedestrians at risk.

The number of pedestrians killed has grown nationwide by about 50% over the past decade, with 6,283 pedestrians killed in traffic crashes nationwide in 2018, or one traffic-related pedestrian death every 84 minutes.

Excess speed, poor lighting, crossing outside crosswalks and impairment are the main factors that lead to a pedestrian being struck by a vehicle.

The Turlock Police Department offers the following tips for drivers and pedestrians:

Drivers
• Slow down on busy streets and intersections.
• Always look for pedestrians in intersections. Stop and allow pedestrians to cross. Pedestrians have the right of way at all marked or unmarked crosswalks.
• Stay off the phone and avoid other distracting behaviors such as eating, grooming, or using in dash touch screens.
• Do your best to not block crosswalks making a right hand turn.
• Keep headlights on at night and be extra careful when pedestrians are harder to see.

Pedestrians
• Obey signs and signals. Try to cross at marked crosswalks, preferably at stop signs or signals where cars expect to see pedestrians.
• Make eye contact and nod or wave at drivers. A quick nod or wave is an easy way to let a driver know you see them, and they see you.
• Get in the habit of walking with a flashlight or wearing a reflective vest at night so it is easier for drivers to spot you.
• If you need to briefly walk into the street t o maintain social distancing on sidewalks, look both ways for passing cars.

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

The Turlock Police Department is an active participant in the Crime Stoppers Program. Callers can leave an anonymous tip by calling Crime Stoppers at (209) 521-4636 and may be eligible for a cash reward.

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This information is being released by Turlock Police Department Sergeant Michael Parmley.

Any media requests should contact:
Sergeant Michael Parmley
Office of Professional Standards
Turlock Police Department
Office phone - (209) 664-7345
Email – [email protected]