‘Step Up for Safer Streets’: Escondido PD share pedestrian safety tips
A pedestrian-friendly mid-block crosswalk in San Diego County Photo courtesy of Circulate San Diego With Sept marking the start of Pedestrian Safety Month in California Monday Escondido Police Department authorities offered drivers reminders take it slow while in their vehicles and be mindful of those walking on the roads According to an EPD press release projections from the Governors Highway Safety Association established that last year in the United States pedestrians were killed due to traffic crashes By invariably taking extra precautions you can help protect pedestrians and reduce the threat of crashes and injuries EPD executives mentioned Walking should perpetually be an easy and safe option for getting around any neighborhood According to the EPD pedestrian deaths account for over of all traffic-related deaths Ryan Bank interim EPD chief stated whether they re out for a stroll or driving residents should remember that small actions like slowing down putting away distractions and yielding at crosswalks can make a life-saving difference Every step we take toward greater pedestrian safety is a step toward saving lives Bank revealed We want to remind everyone that safety begins with them Pedestrians don t benefit from the same protections as drivers and passengers Escondido police agents announced A difference in speed of just miles per hour from mph to mph for example significantly increases the likelihood that a person walking will be killed if struck by a car People should stay off their cell phones when driving or walking EPD agents mentioned Additional suggestions for drivers include drivers should slow down at intersections and be prepared to stop for pedestrians at marked and unmarked crosswalks avoid blocking crosswalks while waiting to make a right-hand turn never drive in an impaired state avoid distractions like texting or eating while driving and staying focused on the road EPD recommends that pedestrians be predictable and use signalized crosswalks where drivers may anticipate foot traffic look both options and make eye contact with drivers before passing the street make it easier for drivers to see them at night by wearing bright colors reflective material or using a flashlight be careful traveling streets or entering crosswalks at night along with busier streets with higher speed limits More traffic safety information is available at www gosafelyca org
