Police Department

Everyone is a Pedestrian!

Ofc. Teresa Fuller

Thursday, June 23, 2016 at 8:34 a.m.

Hoopfest activities will draw pedestrians to downtown Spokane. Spokane County has seen an increase in pedestrian deaths and serious injury collisions, 24 pedestrian fatalities and 123 pedestrian serious injuries from 2010 through 2014. Most pedestrian crashes occur during clear weather, from the hours of 3:00pm to 9:00pm and with a pedestrian in the roadway.

Pedestrians should use the sidewalks were available and cross only at intersections or marked crosswalks. Make eye contact with the drivers before stepping into the crosswalk. Celebrating drivers may be impaired, so pay attention to the traffic moving around you. This is not the time to be texting or talking on a cell phone. Also, if you're listening to music, make sure to have just one ear bud in so you can hear what's going on around you.

Drivers, watch for the pedestrians. Partying pedestrians may be impaired, and not using good judgment. Slow down and be prepared to stop when turning or entering a crosswalk where pedestrians are likely to be. Remember to stop at the crosswalk stop line to give drivers in other lanes an opportunity to see and yield to the pedestrians, too. Be extra careful when passing a stopped vehicle as they may be stopping for a pedestrian. Remember that every intersection is a legal crosswalk whether it is marked or not.

Whether you are a pedestrian or a driver, if you plan to drink alcohol, plan your safe ride home before you start to drink. Designate a sober friend as the driver, call a taxi or take a bus.

Let’s all have a safe Hoopfest weekend. Everyone is a pedestrian at some time. Help Spokane have safe streets.

Target Zero “Zero Fatalities and Serious Injuries by 2030”

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