Sharing the Road

Crosswalk and Street Safety Tips

As parents and guardians prepare children return to school this fall, the City strives to bring awareness to the importance of crosswalk safety for pedestrians, cyclists and drivers. Before the school year starts, take a moment to review the following information to ensure that you are familiar with crosswalk guidelines and general tips to help keep you and your loved ones safe.

PEDESTRIANS

• Cross the street at crosswalks, if available.

• Look both ways and pause to ensure that traffic is stopped before crossing the street.

• Follow the rules of the road and pay attention to traffic signs and car signals.

• Walk on sidewalks, as opposed to the street, whenever possible.

• If sidewalks are not accessible, walk on the street facing traffic, but as far away from traffic as possible.

CYCLISTS

• Pay attention to traffic signs and signals, as well as road lane markings.

• When crossing the street, dismount your bike and wheel it through a designated crosswalk.

• When making a turn, be vigilant of traffic in all directions, including behind you.

• Use hand signals to indicate which direction you plan to turn.

• Use a bike path, whenever available.

• When a bike path isn’t accessible, children less than 10 years old should ride on the sidewalk.

• Older children and adults should ride on the street in the same direction as motorists.

• Whether riding on the road or sidewalk, yield to pedestrians when crossing the street.

MOTORISTS

• Yield to pedestrians and cyclists crossing the street within or outside of crosswalks.

• Be on the lookout for pedestrians and cyclists, even in areas where pedestrian and cyclist traffic is uncommon.

• As you approach a crosswalk in a high-traffic pedestrian or cyclist area, reduce distractions and look around to ensure that you have a clear view of anyone who may cross the street.

• Be mindful of unpredictable speeds of approaching cyclists, as it can be difficult to gauge speed from different angles.

• Be kind and share the road with cyclists and pedestrians of all ages; especially in areas without designated crosswalks or sidewalks.

For more tips and general safety guidelines, visit www.westerville.org/trails.