Ensuring that bicyclists pay attention to road rules will be the focus of an enforcement operation Wednesday in Riverside.
Police officers will be looking for both bicycle scofflaws and motorists who fail to obey road rules during the daylong crackdown.
“We want the public to understand that bicyclists and drivers should be sharing the road and following all traffic laws intended to help everyone get where they need to go safely,” Riverside police Sgt. Ryan Wilson said. “Whether you are on two wheels or four, taking these precautions helps reduce injuries and deaths.”
Officers will target bicyclists who ride on the wrong side of the road, disregard traffic signals, make improper turns and weave in and out of traffic, according to Wilson.
He said motorists who fail to yield, speed or throw open their doors while parked adjacent to an active bicycle lane will also receive a warning or citation.
“Under California law, drivers are required to provide at least three feet of space when passing bike riders,” the sergeant said. “Bicyclists need to use lights from dusk to dawn, with a front white light and rear red flashing light or reflectors, as well as wear a helmet. Bicyclists must travel in the same direction of traffic and have the same requirements as any slow moving vehicle.”
According to Wilson, it is imperative that both drivers and cyclists minimize distractions while traveling, including not using a mobile phone.
Wilson said that in 2018, 91 cyclists were injured in vehicle-versus-bike accidents throughout Riverside.
A National Highway Traffic Safety Administration grant is funding Wednesday’s operation.