BSO RECEIVES ADDITIONAL AWARD FOR BICYCLE AND PEDESTRIAN SAFETY


PIO Number 25-1-25 Date Jan. 22, 2025
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For the 12th year, the Broward Sheriff’s Office is participating in the “Alert Today, Alive Tomorrow” campaign which protects pedestrians and cyclists on county roadways. The program is run by the Florida Department of Transportation.

BSO recently received an additional $293,882.29 through a contract with the University of North Florida’s Institute of Police Technology and Management. The funding allows deputies to educate individuals and enforce safe pedestrian, bicyclist and motorist behaviors throughout Broward County. The total amount of the contract is $362,719.34. The goal of the effort is to reduce traffic crashes and fatalities involving pedestrians and bicyclists through traffic education, warnings and enforcement operations.

The enforcement campaign, which focuses on increasing awareness and compliance with traffic laws, runs through May 9, 2025. Throughout the initiative, deputies in BSO jurisdictions will conduct on-street education by talking to motorists, bicyclists and pedestrians who use county roads. Deputies will enforce Florida State Statutes by issuing warnings and citations when appropriate. 

Research shows that pedestrian and bicycle crashes are more likely to result in fatal or serious injuries than other types of crashes. BSO reminds the community to follow these safety tips:

  • Pedestrians should always walk on the sidewalk. If no sidewalk is available, walk facing traffic.
  • Bicyclists should ride in a designated bike lane if one is available. Cyclists should ride with the flow of traffic.
  • Pedestrians and bicyclists should avoid wearing headphones or talking on their cellphones.
  • Motorists should avoid distractions while driving and always watch for pedestrians.
  • Pedestrians and bicyclists should only cross streets at marked crosswalks or intersections and always obey all traffic signals.
  • Pedestrians and bicyclists should make sure they are visible to drivers when walking or riding at night.
  • On the road there should be a minimum of 3 feet between bicyclists and vehicles.
THIS REPORT BY

Carey Codd/Sr. PIO