Be Safe in Massachusetts: Roadway Safety Tips
Roadway Safety Tips
Ten Safety Tips to Consider For:
Pedestrian Safety
For Drivers:
- Always yield to pedestrians in a crosswalk. It is the law.
- Be especially careful at intersections when making right turns and Right Turns on Red, because pedestrians may have the signal to walk at the same time.
- Drive slowly in areas where pedestrians are present because speed kills: 90% of pedestrians die if hit by a car at 40mph compared to 5% at 20mph. One in seven deaths is a pedestrian.
- Use caution when driving in town centers, neighborhoods, schools, playgrounds, bus stops, transit stations--anywhere that people gather. Watch especially for the elderly, who are slow walkers, and children, who have poor judgment about crossing.
For Pedestrians:
- When crossing at a signalized intersection, pedestrians must follow the rules too. In the absence of pedestrian signals, cross with the green light – watching for turning vehicles. In the presence of pedestrian signals, start crossing with the WALK light – after looking both ways – the driver may also have a green light.
- If there is no sidewalk, walk along the shoulder, facing the traffic.
- Watch for vehicles that are backing up or pulling out--in parking lots and driveways--and when walking between parked cars. Drivers may not see you in their rear view mirror.
- Be alert for problems in winter. Motorists may not be able to stop in icy or slippery road conditions; wait until a vehicle is stopped before crossing. Hats, scarves and falling snow may muffle approaching vehicle sounds. Make sure your umbrella or hood does not block your view of approaching vehicles.
- During the daytime florescent colors are highly visible; at night, a flashlight and reflective materials are very effective.
For Everyone:
- Shovel the snow and ice from your sidewalks and wheelchair ramps to make a safe travel path for pedestrians. Also encourage your neighbors and local business owners to do the same.