Prevent pedestrian-related accidents

With the help of the EMPD, we have composed an article with do’s and do nots concerning pedestrians, as they are particularly vulnerable to accidents.

EMPD media liaison officer Wilfred Kgasago reminded pedestrians to always cross at controlled intersections such as at traffic lights, at corners and at pedestrian block crossings.

“It is key to look left, right and left again before crossing, and keep watching as you cross, as drivers have differing levels of eyesight and skill in operating their vehicles,” Kgasago said.

He said caution must be taken when crossing intersections, as drivers may fail to yield for pedestrians at times, because of the pressure put on them by vehicles following them.

Drivers may also not expect people to be crossing driveways and alley entrances.

Kgasago stressed the importance of adults to supervise children, especially those under the age of 10, when crossing streets, as their judgment may not be that sound and small children may not be seen at all by drivers.

The most vulnerable are kids between the ages of four and 14.

Kgasago said the EMPD is fully aware of the problematic places, which they endeavour to blitz periodically in order to throw the book at offenders.

He reminded members of the public that the emergency lane is for emergency vehicles, in order to access those who need help without encountering any hindrances. Vehicles that have broken down are normally parked in the lane and pedestrians could be walking there.

“Motorists using the emergency lane are actually committing a serious crime, as a life or limb could be lost as well as serious damage being caused to other vehicles, or even the road itself,” he said.

“We once more wish to reiterate our plea to all road-users to strictly observe the rules of the road in order to promote safety for all.

“This will make law enforcement easier for us, as those who flout the rules will be obvious for us to nail.”

Kgasago said it is parents’ and guardians’ responsibility to teach children to be safe while walking to school or a friend’s house.

Drivers should observe the speed limit, slow down in residential neighbourhoods and school zones and watch out for kids who may be crossing the street.

They must give pedestrians the right of way and look both ways when making a turn, to ensure they spot any bikers, walkers or runners, who may not be immediately visible.

Drive slowly and carefully when entering and exiting driveways.

“Basically, it is important for both pedestrians and drivers to eliminate distractions when they are on the roads,” concluded Kgasago.

Tips for Drivers:

• Be vigilant of 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; keep a lookout and slow down if you cannot see clearly.
• When entering a crosswalk area, drive slowly and be prepared to stop.
• Stop for pedestrians who are in a crosswalk, even if it is not marked. When you stop for a pedestrian in a crosswalk, stop well back so that drivers in the other lanes can also see the pedestrian in time to stop.
• Do not overtake and pass other vehicles stopped for pedestrians.
• Be especially attentive around schools and in neighbourhoods where children are active.
• Reduce distractions such as a cellphone.

Tips for Pedestrians:

• Be predictable; stay off freeways and restricted zones, use sidewalks where provided and cross or enter streets where it is legal to do so.
• Where no sidewalks are provided, it is usually safer to walk facing road traffic.
• Make it easy for drivers to see you — dress in light colours and wear retro-reflective material — it might be wise to carry a flashlight in very dark areas.
• Be wary; most drivers are nice people, but do not count on them to pay attention. Watch out and make eye contact to be sure they see you.
• Alcohol and drugs can impair your ability to walk safely, just like they do a person’s ability to drive.
• Use extra caution when crossing multiple-lane, higher speed streets.
• Pedestrians should never use a cellphone for calls or texting when crossing