There is a lot of advice and laws for pedestrians on how to walk safely on busy roadways. Unfortunately, that advice is sometimes not taken, and the law not followed, and pedestrians find themselves in the path of a vehicle. It is imperative that pedestrians be aware of their surroundings and obey all pedestrian traffic laws. Drivers should also be aware that pedestrians at times will not, or cannot for a myriad of circumstances, follow that advice or law and thus they too should be aware of pedestrians in the roadways.
We want to remind pedestrians and drivers again to follow some safety laws/precautions:
- Pedestrians, do not begin crossing at a crosswalk if the red Don't Walk or upraised palm symbol is flashing or steady. Drivers should use caution when driving through crosswalks.
- Although the walk or walking person symbol is displayed, pedestrians should still look for vehicles before leaving the curb. Drivers should also look for pedestrians who may still be in the crosswalk or have begun to cross against the signal.
- Pedestrians, when possible, make eye contact with drivers to ensure they see you.
- Just because one lane of vehicles has stopped doesn't mean that the other lanes will. Pedestrians should continue to look for vehicles while crossing. Drivers should be aware that the possibility exists that a pedestrian will step out from behind a stopped vehicle. Use caution in those situations.
- Pedestrians should be especially careful of vehicles turning right on red or left with an intersection. Drivers may be busy looking out for other vehicles instead of pedestrians. Drivers should pay special attention to this demanding type of scenario.
- Pedestrians, crossing outside of a crosswalk makes you less visible to drivers, especially around a bend.
- Pedestrians, if a bus or other large vehicle is blocking your view, they are also blocking the view of drivers in other lanes. Consider waiting until it leaves before crossing. Drivers should also be cautious when driving behind a bus that frequently stops to pick up or drop off passengers. If pedestrians believe you are stopped behind the bus, they may step out without knowing you intended to drive around the bus or are in the other late that is not stopped. This is a dangerous situation where everyone should use caution.
- The law states that no pedestrian shall suddenly leave a curb or other place of safety and walk or run into the path of a vehicle which is so close that it is impossible for the driver to yield. This is also a dangerous situation where everyone should use caution.
- Pedestrians, being visible to drivers is important. Wear light colored clothing or reflective material if you are walking or exercising during hours of darkness. During sunrise and sunset, be aware that the sun in the eyes of drivers may affect their ability to see you.
Posted by Plevy at February 4, 2009 03:55 PM