CULLMAN, Ala. – According to the Cullman City Police Department, there were five pedestrians struck by vehicles last year locally.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Association (NHTSA) in coordination with commentary from Public Relations Officer Adam Clark provided the “basics” for safety tips for drivers.
Here are ways for drivers to remain safe around pedestrians according to the NHTSA.
•Look out for pedestrians everywhere, at all times.
•Use extra caution when driving in hard-to-see conditions, such as nighttime or bad weather.
•Slow down and be prepared to stop when turning or otherwise entering a crosswalk.
•Yield to pedestrians in crosswalks and stop well back from the crosswalk to give other vehicles an opportunity to see the crossing pedestrians so they can stop too.
•Never pass vehicles stopped at a crosswalk. There may be people crossing where you can’t see.
•Never drive under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.
•Follow the speed limit, especially around people on the street, in school zones and in neighborhoods where children are present.
•Be extra cautious when backing up and look for pedestrians.
Per the otherwise regarding pedestrians traveling on roadways, the NHTSA provided several tips for those walking out and about in regard to drivers.
•Follow the rules of the road and obey signs and signals.
•Walk on sidewalks whenever they are available.
•If there is no sidewalk, walk facing traffic and as far from traffic as possible.
•Cross streets at crosswalks or intersections. Look for cars in all directions, including those turning left or right.
•If a crosswalk or intersection is not available, locate a well-lit area where you have the best view of traffic.
•Wait for a gap in traffic that allows enough time to cross safely; continue watching for traffic as you cross.
•Watch for cars entering or exiting driveways or backing up in parking lots.
•Avoid alcohol and drugs when walking; they impair your abilities and your judgment.
•Embrace walking as a healthy form of transportation – get up, get out and get moving.
Walking is a means of travelling, but when doing so, please remember to walk in well-lit areas, follow traffic and safety signs and be aware of your surroundings.
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