Wipers On? Headlights On!

From our friends at the MD State Highway Administration: Remember to use low beams when wipers are on. See and be seen. It's the law.

Pedestrian and Cyclist Safety Tips

Unfortunately, over the last several days, we have seen an increase in the number of pedestrians struck - including a hit and run early this morning. Below are very timely safety tips from the Montgomery County Department of Transportation.  Please review and feel free to share with friends and family.

For Drivers…

• Stop for pedestrians at crosswalks and intersections- it's the law.
• Don't block crosswalks when stopping at intersections.
• Slow down and obey the posted speed limit.
• Take extra care around schools, playgrounds, and neighborhoods. Pedestrians are hit every 7 minutes each day.
• Always look out for pedestrians, especially before turning at a green light or making a "right turn on red."
• Obey speed limits, signs, signals and markings--and never run red lights.
• Be careful when passing stopped vehicles. They might be stopping for pedestrians.
• Allow 3 feet when passing bicyclists.
• Share the road. It's your responsibility to look out for others.

For Pedestrians…

• Cross the street at marked crosswalks whenever possible.
• Stop and look every time before crossing streets, even when you have the right-of-way, and especially at intersections with "right turn on red."
• Before crossing, look left, right, then left again, and over your shoulder for turning vehicles.
• Begin crossing the street on "Walk" signals-never on a solid or flashing "Don't Walk."
• Use pedestrian pushbuttons to activate/extend the walk signal.
• Use sidewalks. If none, walk facing traffic so you see vehicles, and drivers see you.
• Make eye contact with drivers so they see you. Never assume they do.
• Stay visible after dark and in bad weather with reflectors or retroreflective clothing.

For Cyclists…

• Wear a properly fitted helmet. It can save your life.
• As a vehicle, you have the same rights and responsibilities as a motorist. Obey all traffic signals, signs and lane markings.
• Ride on the right side of the road with the flow of traffic-never against it.
• Pass slower moving or stopped vehicles on the left.
• Ride predictably and defensively. Use hand signals before turning.
• Stay visible, and use lights, reflectors and retro-reflective clothing when riding at night.
• Make eye contact with motorists and pedestrians before crossing paths with them.
• Always yield to pedestrians, even when turning, and especially at a "right turn on red" intersection.
• When cycling on sidewalks, always yield to pedestrians and give verbal warning when passing. Pass on left.

Click here for a printable copy of the tips (pdf)

Click here for StreetSmart tip sheets (pdf)

Hear Us, See Us, Clear for Us!

“Please Abide – Pull Aside”

Do you know what to do when approached by an emergency vehicle? The metropolitan area is often crowded and congested with traffic conditions caused by commuters, collisions, work zones and sometimes just “normal” traffic.

Emergency vehicles are impacted by these conditions, as well. When somebody calls 911 for help – the men and women of the Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service respond. How can everyday drivers help us to help you? – Normally drivers will HEAR us first, next they will SEE us, and then we need drivers to CLEAR for us.

HEAR US - SEE US - CLEAR FOR US 

C – L – E – A – R for emergency vehicles.

C – Calmly pull to and as close to the edge of the roadway as possible and stop.

L – Leave room. Keep intersections clear and never try to follow emergency vehicles.

E – Enter into traffic with caution after the emergency vehicle has passed. Remember to use signals.

A – Aware (be). Be aware of your surroundings. Keep radio volume low and check rear view mirrors frequently.

R – Remain stopped until the emergency vehicle has passed. Be mindful that there may be additional emergency vehicles approaching.

When approached by an emergency vehicle – the law says to pull over to the closest parallel edge of the roadway and yield the right of way to the emergency vehicle. An emergency vehicle is one with an audible siren and/or siren and emergency flashing lights. When driving and approaching an emergency scene – slow down and move over. In other words - “Give us a brake!”

Reduce the risk of an accident near an emergency scene and around emergency equipment.

Stay alert – expect anything to occur when approaching emergency vehicles.

Pay close attention – watch for police or fire direction.

Turn on your headlights – let on scene workers and other motorists see you.

Don’t tailgate – unexpected stops frequently occur near emergency scenes.

Don’t speed – slow down.

Keep up with the traffic flow – dedicate your full attention to the roadway and those traveling around you.

Minimize distractions – avoid changing radio stations and using mobile cell phones while approaching these areas.

Expect the unexpected – keep an eye out for emergency workers and their equipment.

Be patient – remember, firefighters and EMT’s have been called to the scene and are working to help someone.

In Montgomery County pedestrian and traffic safety issues are front and center. If you travel by car or are a pedestrian, please place extra emphasis on safety. Simply looking both ways before crossing a street, crossing in a crosswalk, spending a few extra seconds to cinch the belt on your child's safety seat, or delaying departure to ensure you get enough rest before a long trip can make all the difference. Preventative safety, while measured in seconds or minutes, can save you from months or years of anguish, grief, and "what if". Be smart. Be safe.