Rapid City, S.D. –Halloween is right around the corner and soon there will be lots of little ghosts and goblins walking around Rapid City neighborhoods. Both drivers and trick-or-treaters should be watchful and alert, to make sure everyone has a safe and happy Halloween.
Drivers:
• Be alert. Most trick-or-treaters will likely be out after dark, and costumed kids may be hard for drivers to spot. Motorists need to be especially alert to children crossing the streets and roadways; watch for reflective clothing and quick movements.
• Slow down. Slower speeds give you more time to see hazards and allow you to stop more quickly. If other cars are slowing or stopping, be cautious, as their actions might be your only warning of a pedestrian in the roadway.
• Yield to pedestrians. Pedestrians have the right-of-way if crossing at intersections, even if there isn’t a marked crosswalk.
Pedestrians:
• Watch for cars. Even if a car’s headlights are shining on you, the driver may not see you. Dark clothing absorbs light, and glare from other headlights can momentarily blind drivers.
• Cross in the crosswalk. Pedestrians don’t always have the right-of-way. Pedestrians crossing at any point other than a pedestrian crossing, a crosswalk or intersection, must yield the right-of-way to vehicles.
Other tips to keep in mind:
• A parent should always accompany young children.
• Utilize well-lit streets.
• Always walk on the sidewalk.
• If no sidewalk is available, walk at the far edge of the roadway facing traffic.
• Look both ways before crossing the street.
• Cross the street only at corners (intersections).
• Don't cross the street between parked cars.
• Wear light-colored or reflective-type clothing so you are more visible to drivers.
• Carry a flashlight.
• Motorists may not see you – just because one car stops, it doesn’t mean other cars will stop too.
###
<- Back
|