As springtime arrives in Newtown Borough, more residents and visitors take to the sidewalks and roadways to enjoy the warmer weather, blooming flowers, and outdoor activities. While walking is a great way to explore our charming town, it’s important to stay safe and mindful of increased foot and vehicle traffic. Here are some key pedestrian safety tips to keep in mind this season:
With the sun rising later affecting morning walks/runs and evening strolls becoming more prevalent, your visibility as a pedestrian is crucial. Here’s how to make sure you’re seen:
While pedestrians should be extra vigilant, drivers must do so as well! Pay special attention near crosswalks, school zones and residential areas. Slow down and be prepared to stop. In addition, where traffic-control signals are not in place or not in operation, drivers must yield the right-of-way to pedestrians crossing the roadway within any marked crosswalk or within any unmarked crosswalk at an intersection.
Newtown’s streets can be busy, particularly around State Street and other popular areas. Pedestrians should use designated crosswalks wherever possible and always obey pedestrian signals. Even when you have the right of way as a pedestrian, check for turning vehicles before stepping into the street. Also, pedestrians should never suddenly leave a curb or other place of safety and walk or run into the path of a vehicle which is so close as to constitute a hazard.
Take time to teach your children about the importance of staying safe as a pedestrian. If you are out on a walk together, engage your child or children in deciding when it’s safe to cross a street. Remember, the old adage of “look both ways” has been updated to “look ALL ways”.
As more people take advantage of the warmer weather, sidewalks and shared paths will be busier. Walk on the right side of the path and if walking in a group, ensure that other pedestrians can safely pass without needing to step into the street.
The warmer weather brings about more outdoor activities and reasons for residents to leave their homes. From seasonal events, farmers’ markets, and outdoor dining, Newtown Borough sees a drastic increase in vehicle traffic in the spring. Be extra cautious at intersections and near parking areas where drivers may not always expect pedestrians.
By following these simple steps, we can all help make Newtown Borough a safer and more walkable community. Let’s enjoy the beauty of all warmer weather brings while keeping pedestrian safety a priority!
Walk Friendly Newtown is dedicated to promoting pedestrian-friendly initiatives and making our borough a more walkable, safer place for everyone. Follow us for more safety tips and community updates!