Training Law Enforcers
Many law enforcement officers have misconceptions about pedestrian- and bicyclist-related laws, particularly regarding mid-block crossings and unmarked crosswalks, bikes in crosswalks and on sidewalks, due care laws, etc. Having an effective training program in place will ensure that law enforcement officers are knowledgeable of the state laws and local ordinances that apply to pedestrians and bicyclists. For example, Wisconsin has a pedestrian and bicycle law enforcement training course, called Enforcement for Bicycle Safety (EBS). This course teaches law enforcement officers various aspects of bicycle safety, which laws to emphasize with child and adult bicyclists and with motorists to reduce crashes, how to begin bicycle crash cause identification, and the importance of officers as front line, on-traffic-duty educators. For more information on training for law enforcement officers, visit the Training section.
Specialized police training should be given before implementing a pedestrian safety enforcement campaign, so the officers know their role and in the campaign and the goals and objectives of the campaign, and to refresh them on the pedestrian/motor vehicle laws.
