Pedestrian Safety

Pedestrians and drivers have a shared responsibility to ensure that both parties are safe during their travels. Below are some safety tips that all pedestrians should practice:

• Walk on the inside edge of the sidewalk so you are further away from traffic.  
• If there is no sidewalk, walk facing traffic so you can see oncoming vehicles.  
• Cross only at intersections or marked crosswalks. Do not jay walk.
• Dress to be seen especially at night and on dark/overcast days.  
• Make sure you can hear and see oncoming cars. Remove your headphones and your hood when crossing the street.  
• Make eye contact with drivers. Keep your head up and look where you’re walking. Never assume that drivers see you.  
• Always look for signs that a vehicle is about to move (rear lights, exhaust smoke, sound of motor, wheels turning).

Pedestrian safety for children

• Be a role model – Parents are the number one role model for any young child, so make sure you are setting a good example.  
• Focus on the basics – Kids will digest information about serious issues when it’s simple for them to understand.  
• Mark out safe areas – Focus on teaching your kids where to position themselves when they are around roads to ensure they are in as safe a position as possible.  
• Park it – Parking lots or any areas where cars commonly park require special attention. Remind your kids that vehicles can back up quickly or move without warning.