Central Florida is making streets safer for pedestrians, especially near school zones. A recent surge of law enforcement officers disguised in plain clothes has started actively enforcing the state's driver-yield laws at crosswalks. According to ClickOrlando, this is part of a two-week campaign called Operation Best Foot Forward. The operation, which began on Tuesday, spans seven counties and targets crosswalks primarily within a one-mile radius of schools.
With a sharp focus on reducing traffic-related injuries and deaths, the initiative deploys officers at marked crosswalks. Giving drivers ample time to slow down and stop, those who neglect to yield face tangible consequences—a minimum citation of $164 and the blemish of three points on their driver's license. Captain Mike Tilden of the Kissimmee Police stated, according to ClickOrlando, "We had a couple of near misses and if they blatantly do not stop for a pedestrian, you’re probably going to receive a citation."
Although last year's data from Best Foot Forward revealed a mere 45% compliance rate by drivers at school-zone crosswalks, there's evidence that enforcement and awareness programs like Operation Best Foot Forward can boost those rates significantly. Regarding the need for heightened awareness, Vince Dyer, program manager for Best Foot Forward for Pedestrian Safety, detailed by CFPublic, "It's really about the education,” Dyer said. “[It’s] about bringing visibility to the crosswalks themselves and getting drivers to think and remember when they come back through the area."
Last year's efforts reportedly led to an 11% increase in driver compliance at certain crosswalks, with an 18% increase where additional engineering changes have been implemented. This year's Operation Best Foot Forward will continue targeting intersections until February 21, offering enforcement and a potent reminder to drivers about the sanctity of crosswalks and the laws designed to protect those who journey on foot.
