‘Step Up for Safer Streets’: Escondido PD share pedestrian safety tips

With Sept. 1 marking the start of Pedestrian Safety Month in California Monday, Escondido Police Department officials offered drivers reminders take it slow while in their vehicles and be mindful of those walking on the roads.

According to an EPD press release, projections from the Governors Highway Safety Association showed that last year in the United States, 7,148 pedestrians were killed due to traffic crashes.

“By always taking extra precautions, you can help protect pedestrians and reduce the risk of crashes and injuries,” EPD officials said. “Walking should always be an easy and safe option for getting around any community.”

According to the EPD, pedestrian deaths account for over 24% of all traffic-related deaths.

Ryan Bank, interim EPD chief, said whether they’re out for a stroll or driving, residents should remember that small actions “like slowing down, putting away distractions and yielding at crosswalks can make a life-saving difference. Every step we take toward greater pedestrian safety is a step toward saving lives,” Bank said. “We want to remind everyone that safety begins with (them).”

Pedestrians don’t benefit from the same protections as drivers and passengers, Escondido police officials said. A difference in speed of just 15 miles per hour — from 20 mph to 35 mph, for example —  “significantly increases the likelihood that a person walking will be killed if struck by a vehicle.”

People should stay off their cell phones when driving or walking, EPD officials said.

Additional suggestions for drivers include:

• drivers should slow down at intersections and be prepared to stop for pedestrians at marked and unmarked crosswalks
• avoid blocking crosswalks while waiting to make a right-hand turn
• never drive in an impaired state
• avoid distractions like texting or eating while driving, and staying focused on the road

EPD recommends that pedestrians:

• be predictable, and use signalized crosswalks where drivers may anticipate foot traffic
• look both ways and make eye contact with drivers before crossing the street
• make it easier for drivers to see them at night, by wearing bright colors, reflective material or using a flashlight
• be careful crossing streets or entering crosswalks at night, along with busier streets with higher speed limits

More traffic safety information is available at www.gosafelyca.org.