We often hear reminders on how to be a safe driver such as don’t be distracted, obey traffic signs and signals, and always be alert of your surroundings. We sometimes forget these rules apply to pedestrians also. This is especially important in the winter months when roads are ice and snow covered. According to the Safe Communities (Dane County Traffic Safety-Pedestrian Safety) website, in normal weather conditions, it will take cars traveling at 25 mph approximately 75 feet or about five car lengths to come to a complete stop, that distance may be doubled in bad weather conditions. Be a safe pedestrian by not being distracted, make sure all cars are at a complete stop before entering an intersection and proceed with caution even if you have a ‘walk sign’.
To learn more on pedestrian safety, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)- Pedestrian Safety website.