The Los Angeles Police Department reminded motorists Wednesday to be mindful of bicyclists while on the road, in recognition of May being National Bicycle Safety Month.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there were 1,166 bicycle-related traffic deaths nationwide in 2023, with 49,489 others injured.
A total of 145 bicyclists were killed in California that same year as a result of vehicle-related traffic crashes.
Police said bicycling is both a pastime and a mode of transportation for many, from children riding to school to older adults staying active and healthy.
“It is important that we keep our bicyclists safe, as they do not have the same protections as drivers and passengers,” said Capt. Yvonne Ortiz, commanding officer of the Traffic Coordination Division. “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.”
Police are expected to conduct safety operations focused on driver behaviors that put bicyclists and pedestrians at risk, including speeding, making illegal turns, failing to yield the right of way, and running stop signs or red lights.
Drivers were advised to slow down, obey posted speed limits, and remain especially vigilant when approaching intersections. Police also urged motorists to watch carefully for bicyclists and pedestrians before making turns or opening car doors near streets or bike lanes, adding that patience is key when traveling behind a bicyclist.
State law requires drivers to change lanes whenever possible when passing bicyclists and to always leave at least three feet of space while doing so, police said.
As for bicyclists, police advised using lights when riding at night. Helmets are recommended to significantly reduce the risk of head injury in a crash, but they are not required for riders 18 and older.
Police said bicyclists must travel in the same direction as traffic and follow the same rules as other slow-moving vehicles. They also noted that bicyclists must yield to pedestrians, who have the right of way in marked or unmarked crosswalks and at intersections.