Homer Alaska - News -

Story last updated at 11:53 PM on Wednesday, May 7, 2008

Mixing transportation methods means everyone keeps eye open for safety



By McKibben Jackinsky
Staff writer

As more and more pedestrians and bicycle riders begin sharing the road with drivers, issues of safety take on new meaning.

They also require everyone's attention, whether sitting behind a wheel, placing one foot in front of the other or hanging on to the handlebars.

"Approximately 20 percent of all traffic fatalities are pedestrians," says the State of Alaska Driver Manual.

The manual offers safety principles to decrease that statistic. With regard to pedestrians, drivers are reminded to:

* Slow down, yield and be prepared to stop when approaching pedestrians.

• Stop for all blind persons, regardless of the traffic signal or situation.

• Do not drive through an occupied pedestrian safety zone.

• Do not pass a vehicle stopped to allow a pedestrian to cross the street.

• Be watchful for children.

• Check mirrors before exiting your vehicle.

Pedestrians also bear the burden of safety. DMV reminds them:

• Cross only at crosswalks.

• Obey all traffic laws and signals.

• Never cross a street on a green light about to run out of time or when a flashing or steady "Don't Walk" appears.

• Look for turning vehicles before crossing the street.

• Walk on the left side of the highway, facing oncoming traffic.

* Do not solicit a ride on or along a highway.

• Wear light-colored clothing when walking along a roadway at night.

• Do not drink intoxicating beverages or be intoxicated along the highway.

When it comes to bicycles, motorists are reminded to be alert and courteous. Bicyclists are required to obey traffic signs, signals and all traffic laws. They also must be alert to other traffic.

"Follow the rules of the road as best you can," Homer resident Dave Schneider said, drawing from his years of experience riding bicycles.

"Drivers need to know what you're doing. They really dislike surprises that cyclists spring on them all the time. It's a courtesy that drivers appreciate."

His top safety tip for bike riders?

"Above all, wear a helmet," Schneider said.

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