An article titled “Walk smarter: how to protect yourself from traffic,” in the October 24 issue of News of the Week resulted in several notes to the editor.
A reader whose office is on the corner of a four-way stop frequently observes close calls between cars and pedestrians with drivers talking on phones, texting, or simply not paying attention. Another e-mail mentioned near misses that occur at the corner of Stewart and Anderson streets.
Helping create a pedestrian-friendly campus is every driver’s responsibility.
Please review and follow these guidelines:
- Pedestrians in crosswalks always have the right of way.
- Motorists should not enter a crosswalk until pedestrian(s) reach the opposite curb.
- Drivers should not text or talk on the phone while behind the wheel.
- Remember, if a pedestrian makes eye contact with a driver, he or she is ready to cross the street. The driver must yield to the pedestrian.
- Dusk is now falling before 5:00. Drivers should pay attention at intersections—assume someone will be crossing, and be prepared accordingly. Recognize that in the dark, you must look carefully so you don’t miss somebody.
To read the California laws that apply to cars and pedestrians:
Right-of-way guidelines from The California Driver Handbook: http://apps.dmv.ca.gov/pubs/hdbk/right_of_way.htm