JUNE 24, 2009

Secretary Land reminds walkers, drivers to avoid dangers

As warm, sunny days reappear across Michigan, residents of all ages take advantage of bicycling, jogging and other healthy outdoor activities.

But before you hit the streets this season, Secretary of State Terri Lynn Land reminds pedestrians and drivers to watch for traffic dangers and remember some simple safety tips.

"Like many Michigan residents, I enjoy getting outside for enjoyment and good health," said Land, who recently completed the 5-kilometer Fifth Third River Bank Run through Grand Rapids. "But we shouldn't forget safety while we're enjoying the outdoors. Walkers, runners, bicyclists and car drivers alike need to remember roadway rules and basic courtesy. We've seen great progress in reducing traffic injuries among pedestrians, but we still have work to do."

In 2008, 114 pedestrians were killed in motor vehicle crashes in Michigan, down from 134 deaths in 2007. On average, a pedestrian is involved in a traffic crash every four hours in Michigan. For total pedestrian-vehicle crashes, the number has decreased to 2,170 in 2008 from 2,724 in 2004.

"To reach their destination safely, drivers and pedestrians should be cautious and alert," Land said. "Together, we can reduce the number of injuries along our streets and roads."

Land launched her "Be Safe, Be Seen" campaign in 2006 along with advocates for people with disabilities and the Michigan Association of Broadcasters. The campaign targeted drivers and pedestrians about ways to be safe and share the road.

Pedestrians are reminded to:

• Cross the street at a designated crosswalk when possible and always stop and look left, right, and left again before crossing;
• Come to the edge of a parked vehicle and look around it if it's blocking the view of the street, before entering the street;
• Increase their visibility at night by carrying a flashlight when walking and by wearing reflective clothing that highlights body movements; and,
• Walk on the side of the road facing oncoming traffic where there are no sidewalks.

Land recommends drivers:

• Look out for and always yield the right-of-way to people walking, jogging, biking or crossing a street in the middle of a block;
• Pull out slowly from driveways and parking areas, while watching for pedestrians;
• Stop fully before turning right on a red traffic light and make sure no pedestrian or bicyclist is crossing or waiting to cross; and,
• Yield to anyone crossing the street if turning left on a green light.

Additional information about traffic safety, including the "Be Safe, Be Seen" brochure, is available at www.Michigan.gov/sos