11/07/08

UC Police to Step Up Traffic Patrols at Lab

With the goal of making the Lab a safer place for both cars, bicyclists, and pedestrians, the Lab has stepped up its campaign to monitor traffic safety, calling on UC's Police Department (UCPD) to maintain a presence here. The Lab currently faces an unprecedented traffic challenge. Numerous construction projects, narrow and hilly roads with limited sidewalks, shorter daylight hours, and many staff moving from offsite locations back to the Lab have created conditions that are ripe for potential accidents. UCPD traffic patrols are now occurring throughout the week and will continue through the coming months. Employees are expected to drive and move about the Lab in a safe manner based on the weather, surrounding activities and road conditions, and in compliance with the California Vehicle Code, or they will be ticketed. Between Oct 12 and Oct 31, UCPD ticketed 29 drivers at the Lab for traffic violations; about 60% of these were for failing to stop at a stop sign. Additionally, other citations were issued for expired registration or no proof of insurance. UCPD has also issued numerous verbal warnings. Speeding and failure to stop at stop signs are the two most frequent violations. Bicyclists should remember to wear a helmet and activate lights during the hours of darkness. Remember, driving at the Lab, as in the State of California, is a privilege. Protect yourself and your fellow employees — drive, ride and walk safely.