September 1, 2016 – The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) in keeping Texas roads safe by sharing the road responsibly with pedestrians, is urging everyone to exercise caution now that there is increased school and pedestrian traffic.
Pedestrians should always use a sidewalk if there is one available. Never walk in the roadway if you do not have to. Pedestrians are more likely to be involved in accidents while walking on or crossing a roadway. If the road has no sidewalk, walk on the left side of the road always facing oncoming traffic.
TxDOT offers these tips for pedestrians crossing at intersections or crosswalks:
- Stay alert when crossing a roadway and stay on the right-hand side of crosswalks.
- Always cross at an intersection. Look left, right and then left again before proceeding.
- Always look for oncoming traffic when stepping off a bus or from behind vehicles.
- Try to make eye contact with a driver before walking across the street. Many drivers are distracted and may not be alert to pedestrian traffic.
TxDOT wants all motorists to remember these four important rules of the road:
- Drivers are required to yield to pedestrians who are using a crosswalk.
- Stay alert for pedestrians and do not block crosswalks with your vehicle.
- Reduce speed in work zones and watch for construction detours and nearby workers.
- Adjust your speed to road conditions.
TxDOT is urging parents to alert children to these pedestrian safety tips. Even adults need a reminder in order to stay safe when choosing to walk near traffic. Everyone can help keep Texas roads safer by sharing the road responsibly with pedestrians, exercising caution in work zones and driving at speeds appropriate to road conditions.
For more information, contact Rhonda.Oaks@txdot.gov or (936) 633-4395.
