A POLICE inspector says people have "a valid point" when they complain about police fining jaywalkers and cyclists riding without helmets.

The complaints emerged during a blitz on inner-city pedestrians and cyclists flouting road rules and risking injury or death.

Prahran Inspector Adrian White defended the blitz, known as Operation Halo, saying: "I concede that this might get some people upset, saying 'Why aren't we out there locking crims up?' and that's a valid point, but the fact is, we can't afford to have people struck by cars."

The operation was prompted by an increase in serious injuries to cyclists and pedestrians in road collisions.

Inspector White said cyclists in Stonnington and Port Phillip accounted for 20 per cent of all serious injuries in collisions, double the average rate for the southern metro region. Scofflaws risk $61 fines for jaywalking, $153 for not wearing a helmet while cycling and $305 for cyclists who run a red light.

"We're all rushing to get somewhere, but we all need to take a big deep breath and slow our lifestyles down," said Inspector White. "You might be a little bit late to meet your friends but for the sake of two minutes, it's just not worth [risking your life]."

Bicycle Network Victoria spokesman Garry Brennan said more than 1800 offenders had been caught in the first week. He said just 230 of those were bike riders who would "have to face up to the consequences of breaking the law".

"Fines in Victoria are high for bike offences, but we also have a low rate of offending compared to other states. The fines are acting as a disincentive. Operations such as Halo are critically important."