Montgomery County gets pedestrian safety basics

Pedestrian and Cyclist Safety Tips

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.

During the months of April and May, the Montgomery County Police Department (MCPD) will be focusing enforcement efforts on pedestrian safety. MCPD will be conducting a number of operations at locations with marked crosswalks and areas that have been identified as pedestrian High Incidence Areas (HIAs) -- areas with more pedestrian collisions. Police will be issuing citations to both drivers and pedestrians who are breaking the law.