BREMERTON, Wash. –
At some point in each day, everyone at PSNS & IMF is a pedestrian. Unfortunately, nationwide, pedestrian injuries and fatalities remain high. In 2020, 6,516 pedestrians were killed in the U.S. and an estimated 55,000 pedestrians were injured. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration provides tips to keep pedestrians safe.
7 SAFETY TIPS FOR DRIVERS
1. Look out for pedestrians everywhere, at all times.
2. Use extra caution when driving in hard-to-see conditions, especially during nighttime or bad weather.
3. Slow down and be prepared to stop when turning or entering a crosswalk.
4. Yield to pedestrians in crosswalks and stop well back from the crosswalk to give other vehicles an opportunity to see the crossing pedestrians so they can stop too.
5. Never pass vehicles stopped at a crosswalk. There may be people crossing where you can’t see.
6. Follow the speed limit, especially around people on the street, in school zones and in neighborhoods where children are present.
7. Be extra cautious when backing up and look for pedestrians.
8 SAFETY TIPS FOR PEDESTRIANS
1. Follow the rules of the road and obey signs and signals.
2. Walk on sidewalks whenever available.
3. If there is no sidewalk, walk facing traffic and as far from traffic as possible.
4. Cross streets at crosswalks or intersections. Look for cars in all directions, including those turning left or right.
5. If a crosswalk or intersection is not available, locate a well-lit area where you have the best view of traffic. Wait for a gap in traffic that allows enough time to cross safely, while you continue watching for traffic as you cross.
6. Watch for cars entering or exiting driveways or backing up in parking lots.
7. Avoid alcohol and drugs when walking; they impair your abilities and judgment.
8. Embrace walking as a healthy form of transportation—get up, get out, get moving and stay safe!