Ramapo Police Conduct Pedestrian Safety Detail

At the direction of Chief Hyman, the Special Operations Unit has been conducting targeted  enforcement details at locations identified as sites of prior pedestrian-involved motor vehicle crashes. These locations are selected based on crash data and traffic safety analysis,  with the goal of reducing repeat incidents and improving overall pedestrian safety. 

As part of this initiative, Special Operations members conduct an initial educational  outreach component. During the morning hours, officers are assigned to designated  locations, where they distribute informational pamphlets to motorists and pedestrians. Over the course of approximately two to three hours, several hundred pamphlets are typically distributed. The materials are specifically targeted toward pedestrians and emphasize  behaviors that help ensure their safety, including the proper use of crosswalks, remaining  alert while crossing roadways, obeying traffic control devices, and avoiding distractions. To ensure accessibility and maximize community engagement, the informational materials  are distributed in multiple languages reflective of the community. 

Following the educational phase, officers return to the same locations to conduct a focused  enforcement detail. During this operation, officers monitor traffic conditions and take  enforcement action when appropriate, issuing summonses for violations such as failure to  yield to pedestrians, speeding, distracted driving, and other aggressive driving behaviors. The purpose of combining education with enforcement is to promote voluntary compliance  while also holding violators accountable. 

The Town of Ramapo Records Division is subsequently tasked with tracking the issued summonses and coordinating with the local justice courts to determine their dispositions.  This follow-up process allows the department to evaluate the effectiveness of the  enforcement initiative, monitor adjudication outcomes, and maintain accurate statistical  records for future planning and analysis.