Back to School Safety

Be alert! It's back to school

On social media and through a community press release in August 2022, we promoted safety tips for driving around school buses and schools, as well as safety tips for children walking and biking to school.

MOTORISTS: YEILD FOR PEDESTRIANS.

Remember to always look out for people crossing the street while you drive. Put the phone down and watch out for pedestrians. Sending or reading a short text takes your eyes off the road for almost 5 seconds.

At 55 mph, that’s like driving the length of a football field with your eyes closed. RETHINK how you drive. Behind the wheel, are you: ` Alert and focused? ` Looking out for people walking? ` Obeying all posted signs and speed limits? Driving a few miles over the speed limit might not feel like a big deal, but in a collision with a pedestrian, it can be the difference between life and death.

In 2020, pedestrians who died in single-vehicle crashes were most likely to be struck by the front of the vehicle. Do not block crosswalks when you stop at intersections. Take extra care while driving around schools, playgrounds, and neighborhoods. Avoid alcohol and drugs when driving; they impair your abilities and your judgment.

PEDESTRIANS: 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. Cross streets at crosswalks or intersections.

Look for cars in all directions, incluing 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. Watch for cars entering or exiting driveways or backing up in parking lots.

Remember, alcohol and drugs can impair your abilities and your judgment.

Pedestrian Safety Campaign

This grant is sponsored by the Washington State Traffic Commission. If you would like to be involved, contact Cynthia Tierney at (509) 758-8349 or by email.  Partner agencies for this campaign include City of Clarkston Police Department, Asotin County, Asotin County Community Services, Clarkston Public Works Department and the Lewis-Clark Metropolitan Planning Organization. Pedestrian Safety Activities & Free Resources