A recent increase in pedestrian and bicyclist collisions across Salinas and South Monterey County has prompted local mayors to unite around a shared message: slow down, stay alert, and take responsibility for keeping everyone safe on our roads.
Too many community members have been seriously injured or have lost their lives in preventable traffic incidents. City leaders emphasize that even one collision is one too many—and that safety is a responsibility shared by drivers, pedestrians, and bicyclists alike.
“The number of incidents involving pedestrians and vehicles in Salinas and across the county is alarming,” said Salinas Mayor Dennis Donohue. “Street safety is more than a city priority—it’s a community responsibility. Whether we’re walking, biking, or driving, we all need to stay aware and look out for one another.”
Local leaders stress that road safety depends on shared accountability. In many incidents, responsibility may rest with one or more parties depending on the circumstances, underscoring the importance of awareness and caution from everyone using the roadway.
“So far this year in Soledad, eighteen pedestrians and five bicyclists have been struck by vehicles, many suffering serious injuries,” said Soledad Mayor Anna Velazquez. “As we head into the holidays and the new year, we must slow down, stay alert, and never drive while distracted or impaired. Our goal should always be zero collisions.”
Safety Reminders for the Community
For Pedestrians and Bicyclists
- Use marked crosswalks and designated bike lanes whenever possible
- Follow crosswalk signals and flashing beacons
- Make eye contact with drivers before entering the roadway
- Wear light-colored or reflective clothing at night
- Use extra caution in low-light or high-traffic areas
For Drivers
- Never drive while distracted or impaired
- Watch carefully for crosswalk signals and flashing beacons
- Slow down in low-light conditions, rain, or fog
- Allow extra travel time at night and during poor weather
Local law enforcement agencies respond to dozens of pedestrian-related incidents each year. While some collisions occur outside of marked crosswalks, officials note that distracted or impaired driving greatly reduces a driver’s ability to react in time to prevent tragedy.
Distracted driving remains one of the leading causes of traffic accidents nationwide—and it extends beyond cell phone use. In July 2025, California expanded its distracted driving laws to include activities such as eating, reading, adjusting the radio, using maps, or engaging in other behaviors that take a driver’s attention off the road.
The City of Salinas and Salinas Valley mayors urge all residents to slow down, stay alert, and help protect lives—during the holiday season and throughout the year.
Pedestrian and Driver Safety Resources
- Go Safely California: gosafelyca.org
- Share the Road: gosafelyca.org/share-the-road
- Distracted Driving: gosafelyca.org/just-drive
- DUI Prevention: gosafelyca.org/dui-doesnt-just-mean-booze
- Slow the Fast Down: gosafelyca.org/slow-the-fast-down
- Drowsy Driving: gosafelyca.org/drowsy-driving
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