Traffic Safety: Distracted Drivers and Distracted Pedestrians
Pedestrian safety is a serious issue. Drive cautiously when pedestrians are near because they may suddenly cross your path and not even look up before entering the roadway. Pedestrians may be at risk walking near hybrid and electric vehicles because these vehicles are virtually silent while operating. Use extra caution and be attentive when driving near pedestrians.
- Respect the right-of-way of pedestrians. Always stop for any pedestrian crossing at corners or other crosswalks, even if the crosswalk is in the middle of the block, at corners with or without traffic lights, whether or not the crosswalks are marked by painted lines. Some pedestrians are not paying attention to their surroundings.
- Do not pass a vehicle that has stopped at a crosswalk. A pedestrian you cannot see may be crossing the street. Stop, and then proceed when all pedestrians have crossed the street.
- Remember, if a pedestrian makes eye contact with you, he or she is ready to cross the street. Yield to the pedestrian. If they don't make eye contact, err on the side of caution and STOP. The Pedestrian may be looking down, using their phone or listening to music.
- Allow older pedestrians, disabled pedestrians and pedestrians with young children sufficient time to cross the street.
A crosswalk is the part of the roadway set aside for pedestrian traffic. Most crosswalks are located at corners, but they can also be located in the middle of the block. Before turning a corner, watch for people about to cross the street. Pedestrians have the right-of-way in marked or unmarked crosswalks.
Additional Tips:
- Do not talk on your cell phone as you cross the street. Be an Alert Pedestrian
- Do not talk/text/read while driving. Pay attention to what's ahead of you. If you think that last text message was funny. Think about how 'funny' your boss will be, when you come in 3 hours late for work because of the accident. Insurance $$$$ skyrockets after an accident.
- If walking or jogging on a roadway and using earphone/headphones, keep the volume low enough that approaching traffic can be heard and please do not use them while crossing a road. Crossing a road safely requires 100% of a person's attention.
- Wear reflective or light clothing when walking during hours of darkness.
- Take the time to ensure your vehicle's headlights are on, and nothing is blocking your vision before driving.
- Remember to always look both ways and remain alert while crossing any roadway
- Never assume vehicles will stop for you even if they have a red light.
Although motorists have more responsibility under the law, pedestrians have more at stake. It's YOUR personal responsibility to drive/walk/ride safe!
