WASHINGTON — With the warm weather bringing more people outdoors, police and other public safety proponents are reminding drivers, pedestrians and bicyclists to be extra careful on area roadways.
A total of 69 pedestrians and six bicyclists were killed in the region last year, according to the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments.
Isabel Ricker survived a near fatal bicycle crash in D.C. last August. She says, “No matter how experienced or careful you are, you can’t eliminate the possibility of a crash.”
The council recommends that bicyclists ride in the direction of traffic, at least a car door-width away from parked cars. Bicyclists should always wear helmets and use hand signals when turning.
Drivers should put away the cellphones.
“The cellphone is one of the most distracted things you can do in a vehicle,” says Maryland Motor Vehicle Administrator Christine Nizer.
Other safety tips for drivers courtesy of the Council of Governments include:
- Look twice for people in crosswalks and yield to pedestrians and bicyclists. Slow down; allow three feet when passing bicyclists.
- Pedestrians should cross streets at the corner and use crosswalks when they’re available. Wait for the “walk” signal before crossing the street and don’t text while crossing.
Police departments throughout the area are expected to step up traffic safety enforcement through May 8.
They’ll be looking for drivers, bicyclists and pedestrians who violate safety laws.
