The road death on our roads is unacceptable. Both drivers and pedestrians need to take responsibility for safety on our roads. One of the best safety tips is awareness—keep your eyes open, watch your surroundings, be aware of the people, cars and other vehicles on the streets, and don't make any sudden moves. Pedestrians should be especially cautious around larger vehicles like buses and trucks, which often have limited visibility.
For Pedestrians:
nBe predictable.
nDo not make decisions that place you in the path of oncoming traffic.
nCross at traffic signals, crosswalks and stop signs on busy roads.
nLook all ways before crossing.
nNever cross unless it is safe to do so.
nWalk; do not run, across intersections.
nOnly cross when you have enough time to safely do so.
nAt pedestrian crossovers, push the button to activate the flashing yellow light and point to indicate your intention to cross.
nTry to make eye contact with drivers before stepping off the curb. Just because you see the car doesn't mean that the driver sees you.
nWait for vehicles to stop before crossing in front of them. Cars take longer to stop than you think
nKeep aware of traffic until you safely reach the other side.
For Drivers:
nKeep your eyes on the road and both hands on the wheel.
nDon't be distracted by talking to passengers, eating, drinking, or using your cellular phone.
nLook out for the driver who isn't looking out.
nAlways yield to pedestrians in a crosswalk or pedestrian crossover.
nNever pass a stopped car when approaching a marked pedestrian crossover. The driver ahead may be stopped for a person crossing the roadway.
nDo not tailgate. Maintain a sufficient distance from the car in front of you so that you will have plenty of distance to stop.
nSignal your intentions early enough to give others time to prepare for your next move.
nIt is a good idea for drivers to be especially cautious when making right or left turns, watching the sidewalks for pedestrians. You never know when someone could run out into the street, trying to catch a bus or make the light.
nPedestrians and drivers, please, watch out for each other and share the road. Everyone's safety depends on it.