Crosswalk safety

EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- With the numerous crosswalks and relatively high speed limits here on Edwards, the Air Force Flight Test Center Ground Safety Office would like to provide drivers and pedestrians with some valuable tips on how to remain safe.

• Drivers should always stop for any pedestrian crossing at corners or other mid-street crosswalks. Make eye contact or wave the pedestrian across the street and allow sufficient time for them to get across.
• Younger children, elderly and disabled persons may need extra time to cross the street. Remain calm and give them the time they need.
• If a pedestrian is crossing in an unmarked area, slow down and stop. Allow the pedestrian to cross the street, even if they are not in an "authorized" crosswalk.
• Driving around pedestrians crossing the street is unsafe and can lead to accidents. Be patient and wait for them to fully cross.
• Do not pass a vehicle that is stopped at a crosswalk. You may not see if there is a pedestrian crossing.
• The painted white lines of the crosswalk will not protect pedestrians from a 3,000-lb. car. Give your full attention to the task at hand - crossing the street.
• Do not talk or text while crossing. Look left, right and left again to ensure drivers have full eye contact prior to stepping into the crosswalk. Continue to look left, right and left again to ensure other drivers do not attempt to pass the stopped car waiting for you to cross.
• Be especially attentive on multi-lane roads. One driver may stop and wave you across, but others may not.

Bottom line: Crosswalks are dangerous and the responsibility to use them correctly lies on both drivers and pedestrians. Remember, alert today means alive tomorrow.