Police Traffic Officers Association of Bergen County
PO Box 126 - Paramus - NJ - 07652
Important Safety Reminders For Pedestrians:
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â– Walk on a sidewalk or path when one is available.
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â– If no sidewalk or path is available, walk on the shoulder, facing traffic. Stay alert; don’t be distracted by electronic devices, including smart phones, MP3 players, and other devices that take your eyes and ears off the road.
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â– Be cautious night and day when sharing the road with vehicles. Never assume a driver sees you (he or she could be distracted, under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs, or just not see you). Make eye contact with drivers as they approach.
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â– Be predictable. Cross streets at crosswalks or intersections when possible. This is where drivers expect pedestrians.
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â– If a crosswalk or intersection is not available, locate a well-lit area, wait for a gap in traffic that allows you enough time to cross safely, and continue to watch for traffic as you cross.
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â– Be visible. Wear bright clothing during the day, and wear reflective materials or use a flashlight at night.
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â– Avoid alcohol and drugs when walking; they impair your judgment and coordination.
For Drivers:
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â– Look for pedestrians everywhere. Pedestrians may not be walking where they should be or may be hard to see— especially in poorly lit conditions, including dusk/dawn/night and poor weather.
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â– Always stop for pedestrians in the crosswalk or where pedestrian crosswalk signs are posted.
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â– Never pass vehicles stopped at a crosswalk. They may be stopped to allow pedestrians to cross the street.
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â– Slow down and look for pedestrians. Be prepared to stop when turning or otherwise entering a crosswalk.
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â– Never drive under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.
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â– Follow the speed limit; slow down around pedestrians.
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â– Stay focused and slow down where children may be present, like school zones and neighborhoods.
— NHTSA’s Safety Countermeasures Division
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