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HomeNewsArchivesPOLICE OFFER TIPS ON WALKING, BICYCLING SAFETY

POLICE OFFER TIPS ON WALKING, BICYCLING SAFETY

May 11, 2004 – During the last six months, five persons have died and numerous others have been injured as a result of accidents in the territory involving motor vehicles and pedestrians or bicyclists, Police Commissioner Elton Lewis said in a release issued on Monday.
He called on the public to develop a safety consciousness and, whether driving, walking or bicycling, to "contribute to the prevention" of such accidents.
Lewis said the Police Department, its Traffic Bureau and the Office of Highway Safety recommend the following pedestrian and cyclist safety measures:
– Pedestrians should walk on the side of the road facing the oncoming traffic.
– Bicyclists should travel in the lane of traffic, but keep as far over to the left as possible.
– Motorists should use slow down and caution approaching both bicyclists and pedestrians, especially watching out for cyclists who may make quick moves to avoid obstacles along the edge of the road.
– All persons should use caution traveling around curves and along roads where bushes at the sides are overgrown and extending into the roadway.
– Bicyclists must obey the rules of the road: Use hand signals for turns and stops; have working brakes, lights and a signel bell or horn; wear a safety helmet.
– All persons on the roads should obey traffic signs and signals.
– Pedestrians and bicyclists should cross roads at crosswalks, signal-controlled intersections and corners only.
– Pedestrians when crossing roads should make eye contact with an approaching driver to be sure they have been seen.
– Pedestrians and bicyclists when walking or riding at night should dress to be seen, wearing reflective, bright or light-colored clothing.
– Pedestrians and cyclists should avoid traveling in poorly lighted areas at night.
– Alcohol impairs the judgment and reflexes of everyone. Drinking does not mix with driving, walking or bicycling.

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