Pedestrian Safety
The first week of August, we did a newsletter regarding serious pedestrian/motor vehicle accidents. Since that time, we’ve continued to experience tragic pedestrian collision injuries and fatalities.
Tatsuo Nakata, the chief of staff to City Councilman David Della, was struck Tuesday morning, November 14th, and later died from his injuries at Harborview. Wednesday morning, November 15th, a 57-year-old woman was struck by a car near Safeco Field, at around 6:45 AM and was hospitalized with serious injuries. Less than an hour later, an 11-year-old boy suffered minor injuries after he was struck shortly after 7:30 AM. by a school. Mayor nickels announced plans to crack down on speeding and motorists driving illegally through crosswalks.
Based on accident data collected in Washington State since 1993, about 35 percent of all pedestrian fatalities occur in the two months between the end of daylight-saving time and the end of the year. Less daylight and blustery weather are likely major factors. However, other reasons for these pedestrian collisions come down to the human factor. As motorists, how much attention are we paying to traffic conditions and pedestrians? As pedestrians, how are we utilizing the street, sidewalks and crosswalks?
Some Pedestrian Safety Tips
• Always walk on the sidewalk. If there is no sidewalk and you must walk in the roadway, always walk facing traffic.
• Look both directions before crossing a roadway.
• See and be seen — drivers need to see you to avoid you. Wear bright/light colored clothing or reflective clothing at night so drivers see you.
• Pedestrians should make eye contact with drivers when crossing busy streets.
• Cross streets only at street corners or marked crosswalks or intersections. Crossing at locations that have traffic signals helps motorists see you.
• Pedestrians DO NOT have the right of way when crossing mid-block.
• Give drivers ample time to stop prior to your entering the crosswalk.
• Do not run across a dark street to catch a bus; cross at crosswalks or intersections.
• If a car is parked where you are trying to cross, look for drivers who may pull out and not see you as they looking for traffic.
• Remember: Telephone poles, utility boxes and parked vehicles block on-coming drivers ability to see you.
• Turn off your headphones while crossing the street, so you can hear approaching traffic.
Some Vehicular Safety Tips:
• Pay attention to and abide by all speed limits.
• Never pass/overtake a vehicle that is stopped at a crosswalk.
• Motorists should be on particular alert for pedestrians along school-bus routes, at intersections, and near transit stops and centers.
• Pedestrians have the right of way at ALL intersections, whether in a marked crosswalk or not.
• Always yield to pedestrians upon making turns at intersection
• Use extra caution when backing out of driveways and driving around parking lots.
• Be aware of weather conditions, such as ice, before starting a trip, and allow ample time to travel.
Until Next Time, Take Care And Stay Safe!
Mark Solomon, South Precinct Crime Prevention Coordinator
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