Police embark on monthly traffic detail

County police held a day of high-intensity safety enforcement at the intersections of Colesville Road at Georgia Avenue, East Jefferson Street at Rollins Avenue and three others in the area on April 28 in an effort to promote traffic safety. This monthly detail is in response to increased pedestrian accident rates in the county.

Police officers targeted both drivers and pedestrians at each intersection. Although fine rates were not increased, tickets issued to drivers who failed to stop at crosswalks require them to appear in court. A conviction in court will result in "points" on that driver's permanent record. Police also targeted motorists not wearing their seatbelts.

Spokesperson Derek Baliles emphasized the seriousness and the goal of the detail. "We are trying to get at drivers who are totally disobeying the law. We are reminding them of their responsibility," he said.

Pedestrians who crossed at the intersections were also subject to similar police scrutiny. Baliles reported that pedestrians walking illegally faced a fine of $35. Officers generally targeted jaywalkers.

Police officers wearing orange T-shirts patrolled the crosswalks while others in squad cars handled vehicle traffic.

Next month's intersections are yet to be determined and will be chosen based upon collision data from pedestrian accidents.