In an effort to reduce unsafe driving behaviors in areas identified as high-risk for collisions in Palm Springs, the city’s police department launched “Operation Desert Zero,” which was in effect Thursday, an initiative focused on DUI drivers, speeding and other factors contributing to driving-related incidents.
The initiative started as a response after a pedestrian was killed by a vehicle in January and from ongoing concerns about traffic safety from community members, according to the Palm Springs Police Department.
Additionally, the operation builds on a recent community workshop hosted by the department’s Traffic Sgt. Jason Lamb, in which attendees were taught about traffic safety and reviewed local statistics that contributed to collisions within the city.
“Operation Desert Zero represents our commitment to zero-tolerance for behaviors that endanger lives on our roads,” Lamb said in a statement. “We’ve already briefed our patrol officers, resulting in a significant uptick in targeted enforcement in these hotspot zones. By focusing on prevention and accountability, we’re working to make Palm Springs safer for drivers, cyclists, pedestrians and runners alike.”
Police said to support the operation’s overtime needs, the department will utilize grant funding provided by the California Office of Traffic Safety. California Highway Patrol will assist in the operation by conducting traffic enforcement along Highway 111 in Palm Springs.
Any future phases of the operation may include collaborations with local cycling and running groups to promote awareness and safety practices.
Police encouraged residents to stay vigilant and to report unsafe driving.
Hopefully, a big improvement over prior years where multiple pedestrians and cyclists have died at the hands of speeding and often impaired drivers with no police in sight ever (until they are called).