Tomorrow, Tuesday, April 1, 2025, the Westminster Police Department Traffic Division will conduct a Bicycle/Pedestrian Enforcement Operation.
This is not an April Fool’s Day joke – but if you opt to drive crazy around bicycists or pedestrians tomorrow the joke will be on you as you will be getting a citation.
Police officers will be patrolling areas where bike and pedestrian traffic and crashes occur in an effort to lower deaths and injuries.
The police officers will look for violations made by drivers, bike riders, and pedestrians that can lead to life-changing injuries.
Bicycle/Pedestrian-focused operation locations are determined based on data showing incidents of driving-related crashes.
In California, traffic violations can lead to severe penalties, especially when they result in life-changing injuries. Here are some key points for drivers, bike riders, and pedestrians:
Drivers
- DUI (Driving Under the Influence): Severe penalties including fines, license suspension, and possible jail time.
- Reckless Driving: Fines up to $1,000, imprisonment for up to 90 days, and points on your driving record.
- Speeding: Fines vary based on the speed over the limit, ranging from $214 to $328.
Bike Riders
- Helmet Violations: Fines for not wearing a helmet can be around $178.
- Running Red Lights: Similar to drivers, bike riders can face fines for traffic signal violations.
Pedestrians
- Jaywalking: Fines can be around $250.
- Crossing Against Signals: Pedestrians can be fined for not obeying traffic signals.
These penalties aim to enforce safety and reduce the risk of accidents.
In Westminster, California, jaywalking is technically still illegal, but law enforcement cannot stop a pedestrian for jaywalking unless there’s an immediate danger of a collision, thanks to the “Freedom to Walk” Act.