Every day, people across our communities are walking to school, heading to the bus stop, getting some exercise or simply crossing the street to get where they need to go. This October, during Pedestrian Safety Month, I want to remind everyone that every step matters when it comes to getting home safely.
The Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation’s Walk Wise Hawaiʻi program is encouraging pedestrians and drivers to slow down, stay alert and look out for one another.
Pedestrians are among the most vulnerable people on our roadways. Even when you have the right of way, never assume a driver sees you. At the same time, drivers have a responsibility to slow down, stay focused and yield to pedestrians.
Seven Ways to Walk Safer
Here are seven simple reminders from HDOT that can help keep our families, neighbors and communities safe:
1. Use the crosswalk.
Whenever a marked crosswalk is available, use it. If there is no crosswalk, cross at a corner.
2. Look left, right, then left again.
Stay alert and continue watching for vehicles as you cross. Never assume a driver sees you.
3. Don’t start crossing on the countdown.
If the pedestrian signal is already counting down, wait for the next walk signal. The countdown is for people who are already in the crosswalk.
4. Walk, don’t run.
Take your time crossing. Giving yourself a few extra seconds can give drivers a better opportunity to see you.
5. Be seen after dark.
If you are walking between dusk and dawn, wear bright or reflective clothing to make yourself more visible.
6. Watch for cars backing up.
Be especially careful in driveways and parking lots. A driver backing out may not see you.
7. No sidewalk? Face traffic.
When there is no sidewalk, walk along the side of the road facing oncoming traffic.
Drivers: Look Up and Slow Down
Pedestrian safety is a shared responsibility. Drivers, please slow down near crosswalks, put away distractions, check your blind spots and always yield to pedestrians. When possible, make eye contact before proceeding, but remember that eye contact is not a substitute for yielding when required.
Whether you are behind the wheel or on foot, please pay attention and look out for one another.
A few extra seconds of awareness can make the difference between someone getting home safely and a tragedy.
This October, let’s all Walk Wise, Drive Safe and help keep our roads safe for everyone.
Every crosswalk connects more than two sides of a street. It connects people to their schools, workplaces, families and communities. Photo: Josh Koh
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