With the academic year resuming at schools on the traditional calendar, it becomes even more crucial to watch for stopped school buses and for students crossing streets near campuses. It’s an especially appropriate time for reminders about looking out for pedestrians of all ages at crosswalks throughout Holly Springs.
S
tate law requires that motorists stop for pedestrians at all crosswalks. For their safety, pedestrians should ensure that traffic in both directions sees them and is stopping before beginning to cross.
The Holly Springs Police Department’s traffic unit conducts periodic monitoring of crosswalks to ensure that motorists are stopping for pedestrians as state law requires. Drivers who have the ability to stop for a pedestrian and fail to do so can be ticketed. The maximum fine for failing to stop for a pedestrian if they are waiting in a crosswalk area is $288.
Last year, the Police Department conducted a total of 95 crosswalk safety campaigns.
The Town has installed sets of pedestrian-activated flashing beacons at eight intersections throughout Holly Springs. Six potential locations for future beacons have been identified.
Visit www.hollyspringsnc.us and see the Police Department’s Citizen Resources section for beacon locations and more on crosswalk safety and law.
Crosswalk Safety Tips
From the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration:
FOR WALKERS
Be predictable. Follow the rules of the road and obey signs and signals.
Walk on sidewalks whenever they are available.
If there is no sidewalk, walk facing traffic and as far from traffic as possible.
Keep alert at all times; don’t be distracted by electronic devices that take your eyes (and ears) off the road.
Whenever possible, cross streets at crosswalks or intersections, where drivers expect pedestrians. Look for cars in all directions, including those turning left or right.
If a crosswalk or intersection is not available, locate a well-lit area where you have the best view of traffic. Wait for a gap in traffic that allows enough time to cross safely; continue watching for traffic as you cross.
Never assume a driver sees you. Make eye contact with drivers as they approach to make sure you are seen.
Be visible at all times. Wear bright clothing during the day, and wear reflective materials or use a flashlight at night.
Watch for cars entering or exiting driveways, or backing up in parking lots.
Avoid alcohol and drugs when walking; they impair your abilities and your judgment.
FOR DRIVERS
Look out for pedestrians everywhere, at all times. Safety is a shared responsibility.
Use extra caution when driving in hard-to-see conditions, such as nighttime or bad weather.
Slow down and be prepared to stop when turning or otherwise entering a crosswalk.
Yield to pedestrians in crosswalks and stop well back from the crosswalk to give other vehicles an opportunity to see the crossing pedestrians so they can stop too.
Never pass vehicles stopped at a crosswalk. There may be people crossing that you can’t see.
Never drive under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.
Follow the speed limit, especially around people on the street.
Follow slower speed limits in school zones and in neighborhoods where children are present.
Be extra cautious when backing up—pedestrians can move into your path.
