Let’s Keep Pedestrians Safe

Keeping pedestrians safe is a responsibility of both walkers and car drivers. The following safety tips come from walkinginfo.org. Let’s keep our community safe for everyone!

• You can encounter pedestrians anytime and anywhere — even in places where they are not supposed to be found.
• Pedestrians can be very hard to see — especially in bad weather or at night. You must keep a lookout and slow down if you can’t see clearly.
• In Georgia, every intersection is a legal crosswalk, whether marked or not. Many drivers do not realize this. When you stop for a pedestrian in a crosswalk, stop two cars back so that drivers in the other lanes can also see the pedestrian in time to stop.
• Cars stopped in the street may be stopped to allow a pedestrian to cross. Do not pass a car stopped in one lane until you are sure it is not waiting for a pedestrian to cross.
• When you are turning, you may have to wait for a “gap” in traffic. Be aware that while you are watching for that “gap,” pedestrians may have moved into your intended path. Double-check before you turn.
• Be especially attentive around schools and in neighborhoods where children are active. Drive like you would want people to drive in front of your own home.

Enjoy walking in Decatur!