Not too long ago, a Lathrop High student was hospitalized after accidentally being struck by a car in front of the school.

The City of Lathrop installed Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon equipment on Spartan Way, including poles, lights, and signage – this was planned, incidentally, in advance to support safer walking and driving conditions in the school areas, the City said last month on social media.

The Lathrop Police Department is urging driver to slow down and be alert for pedestrians, in recognition of October being National Pedestrian Safety Month.

“In Lathrop, walking should always be an easy and safe option for getting around,” said Lt. Brian Hernandez said. “We want to make sure that the people walking will be safe.

“We urge drivers to take the time to look out for people. Small actions, like slowing down, putting away distractions, and yielding at crosswalks, can reduce crashes and serious injuries.”

In an effort to promote the safety of people walking, local police will be conducting a traffic safety operation on Monday, Oct. 27, from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. focused on the most dangerous driver behaviors, in turn, putting pedestrians at risk.

These violations include speeding, making illegal turns, failing to yield, and running stop signs or signals.

Lathrop police, as a reminder, continue to ask drivers to always take extra precautions to help protect pedestrians.