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Home My WebLink AboutThe Citizen, 2009-10-22, Page 19A pedestrian is killed almost every two hours and injured every eight minutes on the country’s roadways, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Similarly, each year hundreds of bicyclists die and thousands are injured in traffic accidents. Drivers must realize that they are sharing the road and drive with open eyes and ears. And pedestrians and bicyclists must do their part to follow traffic safety rules to prevent injuries. PEDESTRIANS Safety tips exclusive to pedestrians: * Always use sidewalks and crosswalks when available. If no sidewalk is present, walk against the direction of traffic. * Use traffic signals as your guide. However, make sure all traffic has stopped before crossing the road or stepping off of the sidewalk. * Keep control of pets when walking them on a leash, so you’re not pulled out into traffic. * Use caution at bus stops. Many injuries occur from pedestrians running to catch a bus or stepping out into traffic after exiting a bus. Remember, there will be another bus behind the one you’re chasing and safety is more important. * Wear brightly coloured or reflective clothing if walking at night. * Do not cross highways or interstates on foot; you risk serious injury. BICYCLISTS Safety tips exclusive to bicyclists: * Bicyclists must follow the same traffic rules as automobile drivers. Stop for red lights and stop signs, signal lane changes or turns, and drive on the correct side of the road. * Watch out for parked cars. Oftentimes drivers exit their vehicles and do not check for oncoming traffic or cyclists. You can be hit by a swinging car door. * Make yourself as noticeable as possible. This could include using a light or horn on the bike to signal your presence to drivers. *Always wear a helmet and other applicable safety equipment. * Maintain your bike so that it is safe to ride. * Do not carry others on your bike (such as a friend or a child) if it is not designed to do so. Riding on the handlebars or behind the cyclist can be dangerous. * Avoid the use of ear buds or headphones while cycling. You want all of your senses to be available to avoid accidents. * Cycle out of the way of drivers’ blind spots so you’ll be more visible. * Do not ride your bike on the sidewalk where you could injure pedestrians. DRIVERS Safety tips exclusive to drivers: * Be aware that you could be sharing the road with pedestrians, cyclists or motorcycle riders. * Use caution when making turns or at busy intersections -- pedestrians could be crossing. * Always yield right of way to pedestrians. * Pay attention to the road and limit distractions inside of the car. This includes keeping the radio tuned low so that you can hear sounds outside of the car. * Use caution when entering or exiting your parked vehicle. * Use caution in and around bus stops or other points of mass transit. * Regularly check the side of the road for pedestrians, especially in areas where there are no sidewalks. With drivers, pedestrians and bicyclists working in concert, accidents can be reduced. THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, OCTOBER 22, 2009. PAGE 19. Everyone can share the road For one and all Common sense, courtesy and some safety smarts ensure that everyone can share the road. (MS photo) Fall On The Road JenkinsL.H. Limited TOWING, AUTO PARTS & REPAIR “Friendly Service & Reasonable Prices” 519-524-2181 Towing 519-524-2182 24 HOUR • Damage Free Towing • Flat Bed Towing • Local & Long Distance LARGE SELECTION OF NEW & USED PARTS FOR ALL MAKES & MODELS “Fuel tanks our specialty” CANADIAN TIRE AUTO CLUB National Auto League “Specializing in on-the-farm-service” Good Selection of Snow Tires! Bruce Willits 456 Ross Street, Lucknow 519-528-2103 ALL MAKES OF PASSENGER TIRES, LIGHT TRUCKS, MEDIUM TRUCKS AND FARM Borrmann’s Garage since 1983 Quality Vehicle Service - Auto, Truck & RV Complete Maintenance, Diagnostic & Repair Centre AC Delco Service-Trained Technicians 86924 Brussels Line, Bluevale 519-335-3857 Carter's West End Garage & Body Shop 215 Huron St., Clinton 519-482-9363 or if busy 519-482-3534 For all your Winter car needs! 87 North Street W., Wingham 519-357-4495 Lyle’s Auto Repair Winter is coming - Time to prepare • Class A mechanic • Computer Diagnostics • Fuel Injection Repairs to all models • Specialize in electrical problems starting at $6995 Winterize Check • Oil & Lube • Check belts and hoses • Top up fluids • Check anti-freeze • Check tire pressure Undercoating