Sammamish-Issaquah Families: Spring Pedestrian Safety Tips

Even though Washington State has a strong record on pedestrian safety, pedestrian accidents do happen. As we move into better weather conditions, we begin to see more people outdoors enjoying the sunshine and walking in our communities. We usually take for granted that we walk without incident, because most of the time we do. 

Statistically, young children and the elderly are more likely to be injured or killed in a pedestrian collision. The best way to avoid an incident is to be prepared and be aware of vehicles around you. While the law says a pedestrian has the right of way, it does not relieve pedestrians of using due care for their own safety.

• Walk on sidewalks. If sidewalks are not available, walk on the edge of the road or on the left shoulder of the road, facing the traffic flow.  Use pedestrian bridges and walkways when they are available.
• Cross at marked crosswalks or intersections. Pedestrians are most often hit by cars when they cross the road at places other than intersections.
• Always be sure to look left, right, and left for traffic. Stop at the curb and look left, right, and, left again for traffic.  Stopping at the curb signals drivers that you intend to cross. Always obey traffic signals.
• See and be seen!  Drivers need to see you to avoid you.
• Stay out of the driver’s blind spot
• Make eye contact with the drivers when crossing busy streets
• Wear bright colors or reflective clothing if you are walking near traffic at night
• Carry a flashlight when walking in the dark

•  Do not let kids play near traffic or cross the street by themselves. In bad weather, take care that your umbrella or raincoat does not prevent approaching vehicles from seeing you

• Watch your kids. Small children should not cross streets by themselves or be allowed to play or walk near traffic.  Kids cannot accurately judge vehicle distances or accurately predict vehicle speeds or movements.

• Obey traffic signals.  At intersections where traffic is controlled by signals or a traffic officer, pedestrians must obey the signal and not cross against the stop signal unless specifically directed to go by a traffic officer.

For more information go to:  www.safekids.org

--Information from Eastside Fire & Rescue