Published: Feb. 15, 2018

Green pedestrian crosswalk signalEvery day, we all face danger, a听danger like we never thought we would ever have to face in our lifetime: crossing the street at the crosswalk. But this danger could be lessened if we all just followed a few simple rules.

Pedestrians

Cross at the crosswalk. Be sure you push the button and have the walk signal if crossing at a lit crosswalk. Failure to do this could cost you $50. If you are at one of the other marked walks, be sure you make yourself visible to the cars. Don鈥檛 assume they see you approaching and know you are crossing.

Bikes and boarders

Slow down. The city ordinance requires you to slow down to 8 mph when approaching and crossing a crosswalk. Failure to do this could cost you $50. You, too, should not assume drivers see you approaching the crosswalk.

Drivers

Yield to the crosswalk. Failure to do this could cost you $125. Make sure someone isn鈥檛 in the crosswalk or approaching the crosswalk.

Pay special attention to the sidewalk behind you. Many accidents occur because the pedestrian/biker/boarder was traveling in the same direction from which the vehicle approached. Take that extra second and look at the sidewalk behind you.

Everyone

There are two general rules for everyone:听First, be sure to make eye contact with the driver/pedestrian/bicyclist/boarder so you know they see you. Secondly, get your heads up and off of your phone! Crossing at a crosswalk is not the time to update social media or text a friend.