Ormond Beach Police Department to participate in High Visibility Enforcement Program.

Written by Kristen Schmutz

Belden Communications News

In a recent analysis of traffic crash data, Volusia County has emerged as one of the top 25 counties in Florida with concerning rates of severe and fatal injuries involving pedestrians and bicyclists. In response to this alarming trend, the Ormond Beach Police Department has taken a proactive step by becoming a part of the Florida Department of Transportation's (FDOT) High Visibility Enforcement (HVE) Program. This strategic initiative aims to enhance awareness among motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians about the state's traffic regulations, ultimately fostering safer roadways in Ormond Beach.

Beginning this month and continuing through May 2024, the Ormond Beach Police Department will deploy additional officers to key traffic corridors notorious for pedestrian and bicyclist accidents to raise awareness of hazardous behaviors contributing to severe and fatal injuries at these locations. Law enforcement personnel will be vigilant for drivers who exhibit dangerous behaviors such as speeding, failing to yield to pedestrians at crosswalks, making improper turns or signal violations, and using handheld devices while driving.

Furthermore, the officers will closely monitor pedestrians who disregard traffic regulations by jaywalking or neglecting to yield to vehicles with 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. It is noteworthy that officers will issue warnings and citations as deemed appropriate in these situations.

"Regardless of whether you're walking, driving, or cycling, a shared responsibility exists to navigate the roads safely," emphasized the Ormond Beach Police. "By comprehending and adhering to road rules, we collectively ensure safe journeys and cultivate a more secure environment for all."

The funding for this pivotal program is made possible through a partnership with the University of North Florida's Institute of Police Technology and Management (IPTM), facilitated by the Florida Department of Transportation. As part of this collaboration, the Ormond Beach Police Department will receive financial support to cover overtime hours for officers engaged in enforcement operations and specialized training on Florida's bicycle and pedestrian laws, protocols, and optimal practices.

In the interest of public safety, the Ormond Beach Police Department is eager to provide essential tips for those engaged in biking, driving, or walking:

• For Drivers: Adhere to speed limits, abstain from driving under the influence, and maintain heightened vigilance for pedestrians and cyclists sharing the road.
• For Bicyclists: Observe traffic laws diligently, travel in the same direction as vehicular traffic, and ensure your bicycle is equipped with proper lighting when riding at night.
• For Pedestrians: Cross streets exclusively at designated crosswalks or intersections, comply with pedestrian signals, and enhance your visibility to drivers, especially when walking during nighttime hours.

The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) initiated the Bicycle and Pedestrian Focused Initiative in 2011 to enhance the safety of pedestrians and cyclists throughout the state. Known as "Alert Today Florida," this public education campaign strives to eliminate traffic accidents resulting in severe or fatal injuries to these vulnerable road users. Objectives include advancing data collection, analysis, and evaluation to guide the implementation of comprehensive safety strategies directed towards areas with the highest representation of traffic crashes resulting in severe or fatal injuries to pedestrians and bicyclists.

For more information, visit www.alerttodayflorida.com.