Prevent Dart-Outs

Pedestrian safety ‘A priority’

It’s true that we all have our own preferences when it comes to transportation, but let’s face it- at some point or another, we all become pedestrians. The good news is that when drivers prioritize safety by maintaining appropriate speeds and following safe driving practices, it creates a safer walking environment for everyone in the community – including you and your loved ones. So let’s work together to make our communities safer for everyone!

Pedestrian Safety Is The Law

• According to the Tulsa, Oklahoma, Traffic Code, Section 1104. A. – Pedestrians walking along roadways. Pedestrians must cross the street at an intersection or in a crosswalk, unless they are in a residential neighborhood without traffic control devices. Every pedestrian crossing a roadway at any point, other than within a marked crosswalk or within an unmarked crosswalk at an intersection, shall yield the right-of-way to all vehicles upon the roadway

• According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), pedestrian fatalities accounted for 17% of all traffic fatalities in 2019. This statistic highlights the need for improved pedestrian safety measures, including awareness campaigns and infrastructure improvements. One of the most important aspects of pedestrian safety is crosswalk safety. Now let’s discuss some important crosswalk safety tips recommended by (NHTSA) National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Use designated crossings

First and foremost, it is essential to understand what we mean when we refer to  a pedestrian crosswalk.  A crosswalk is a designated area for pedestrians to cross the street. Crosswalks can be marked or unmarked, but they are generally identifiable by painted lines or other markings on the pavement. It is important to note that pedestrians have the right of way in crosswalks, but they must still exercise caution and follow certain safety guidelines.

One of the most important crosswalk safety tips is to always use a designated crosswalk when crossing the street. Pedestrians should avoid crossing the street in the middle of the block or between parked cars, as this can be dangerous and increase the risk of an accident. Instead, pedestrians should look for a nearby crosswalk and use it to cross the street safely.

Make sure drivers can see you

Another important crosswalk safety tip is to make eye contact with drivers before crossing the street. Pedestrians should not assume that drivers will stop for them, even if they are in a marked crosswalk. Making eye contact with drivers can help ensure that they see the pedestrians and are aware of their presence.

Be careful. Walk. Don’t run

When crossing the street, pedestrians should always walk, never run. Running can increase the risk of tripping or falling, which can be dangerous, especially in busy areas. Additionally, pedestrians should avoid using their cell phones or other electronic devices while crossing the street, as this can distract them and increase the risk of an accident.

Listen and Look 👀 before crossing

It is also important to pay attention to traffic signals and signs when crossing the street. Pedestrians should wait for the walk signal or green light before crossing the street, and they should obey any other signs or signals that are present. Pedestrians should also be aware of turning vehicles and should wait for them to complete their turn before crossing the street.

Practice Hazard Awareness

Pedestrians should always be aware of their surroundings and exercise caution when crossing the street. This includes looking both ways before crossing the street, listening for oncoming vehicles, and being alert to any potential hazards, such as construction sites or uneven pavement.

Crosswalk Safety is key

Crosswalk safety is a critical aspect of pedestrian safety. By following these simple crosswalk safety tips recommended by the NHTSA, pedestrians can help reduce the risk of accidents and ensure that they arrive at their destination safely. Remember to always use a designated crosswalk, make eye contact with drivers, walk (never run), pay attention to traffic signals and signs, and be aware of your surroundings.

Prioritize—Pedestrian Safety

The most important pedestrian safety tips

As drivers, it’s our duty to prioritize the safety of pedestrians. Let’s keep these eight tips in mind to ensure that we are always responsible and mindful while driving:

• Keep an eye out for pedestrians everywhere, at all times.

• Be extra cautious when driving in conditions that may make it hard to see, such as nighttime or bad weather.

• Slow down and be prepared to stop when turning or entering a crosswalk.

• Give pedestrians the right of way when they are in crosswalks and stop well behind the crosswalk to allow other vehicles to see the crossing pedestrians.

• Never pass vehicles that are stopped at a crosswalk, as there may be people crossing where you can’t see.

• Always drive sober and never under the influence of drugs.

• Follow the speed limit, especially in areas with pedestrians, school zones, and neighborhoods where children might be present.

• Be extra cautious when backing up and always look for pedestrians.

Do your part

Let’s make sure we are doing our part to ensure that everyone on the road remains safe and aware.