Sheriff's Office Joins State Program to Improve Pedestrian, Bicycle Safety

Date Added: January 24, 2024 12:47 pm

Laura Williams, Public Affairs
& Media Relations

VSO Joins Florida Program to Improve Pedestrian, Bicycle Safety

Because Volusia County ranks in the top 25 counties in Florida for traffic crashes resulting in serious and fatal injuries to pedestrians and bicyclists, the Sheriff’s Office is participating in the Florida Department of Transportation’s High Visibility Enforcement (HVE) program aimed at educating everyone about traffic laws to improve safety on all roads.

“Whether you're on foot, behind the wheel, or on a bike, you have a responsibility to share the road safely,” said Sheriff Mike Chitwood, who is an avid bicyclist himself. “Understanding the rules of the road helps ensure we all arrive at our destination safely and makes our streets safer for everyone.”

Starting this month through May, our deputies will increase patrols in specific areas with a high occurrence of pedestrian and bicyclist crashes. Special attention will focus on increasing awareness of the dangerous behaviors that are contributing to serious and fatal injuries at these locations.

Deputies will look for drivers who speed, fail to stop for pedestrians in crosswalks and school zones, make improper turns or signal violations, and use hand-held devices while driving.

Deputies also will watch for pedestrians who cross the street illegally or fail to yield to motorists who have the right-of-way.

Bicyclists will be stopped for riding against traffic, riding at night without lights or not abiding by the same laws as motor vehicles. Deputies will issue warnings and citations when appropriate.

Please help us make our Volusia County roadways safer for everyone. Here are some tips:

WALKING QUICK TIPS:

--Always use sidewalks and crosswalks;

--Be visible. Wear bright, reflective colors on your clothes, shoes, belt and wristband.

--If no sidewalks are present, walk on the shoulder a safe distance from the travel lane, facing oncoming vehicles.

BIKING QUICK TIPS:

--Always wear a helmet;

--Ride in the same direction of traffic on the street;

--Be visible, especially at night. Always use a white front light and a red rear light and reflector;

--Obey all traffic signs signals and markings.