The Idaho Falls Police Department is always striving to work together with the citizens of Idaho Falls to create a safe community in which to live, visit, work and play.
IFPD, in conjunction with the Idaho State Police, will conduct crosswalk safety operations on Friday, Oct. 27 and remind community members of some safety tips when it comes to crosswalks:
-Idaho statute states that when traffic-control signals are not in place or not in operation the driver of a vehicle shall yield the right-of-way, slowing down or stopping, if need be, to yield to a pedestrian crossing the highway within a crosswalk.
-Although crosswalks exist at every intersection, whether marked or not, pedestrians should make sure all vehicles have yielded prior to stepping into a crosswalk and crossing the roadway.
-Whenever approaching a crosswalk, pedestrians should remove earphones and stop music, texting, phone calls and other distracting activities.
-Drivers need to avoid distractions as well – using a cell phone or other handheld device, reaching for something on the floor or other distracting activity.
-Never assume the driver sees you – make eye contact with the driver before stepping into the crosswalk.
-Drive within the speed limit. Remember that the posted speed limit is a maximum limit, not a speed ‘target’.
-Make it a habit to proactively check for pedestrians and bicyclists.
-When at an intersection or pulling out of a driveway or parking lot, stop before a crosswalk or sidewalk and look in both directions prior to proceeding.
-In the same way that mirrors are used to be aware of traffic, check sidewalks and side streets for pedestrians approaching a crosswalk.
-Motorists should never pass another vehicle stopped at a crosswalk, as there may be a pedestrian crossing hidden from view.
-When stopping for a pedestrian, stop far behind the crosswalk so other drivers can see the person crossing.
Be safe and have a wonderful weekend!
For additional information on the state’s crosswalk safety laws, click HERE.
###