Reporting Deputy: Sergeant Don Olson
File # N/A
Details:
Palm Desert and Rancho Mirage, California – September is Pedestrian Safety Month, and the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department in Palm Desert and Rancho Mirage will participate in activities throughout the month encouraging the safety of people walking.
Based on data projections from the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA), 7,485 people, or an average of 20 people every day, died after being struck by a vehicle last year – an 11.5% increase from 2020 and a 40-year high.
“People should not feel in danger walking.” The Riverside County Sheriff’s Department ask. “Drivers, please slow down and be aware of people who are walking. If we all look out for one another, we can all get where we need to go safely.” So please slow down and look out for people walking.
The Riverside County Sheriff’s Department offers safe driving and walking tips, including staying off the phone when behind the wheel or walking:
Drivers
- Do not speed, and slow down at intersections. Be prepared to stop for pedestrians at marked and unmarked crosswalks.
- Avoid blocking crosswalks while waiting to make a right-hand turn.
- Never drive impaired.
Pedestrians
- Be predictable. Use signalized crosswalks where drivers may anticipate foot traffic.
- Watch for approaching vehicles and practice due care crossing the street. At 30 mph, a driver needs at least 90 feet to stop.
- Make it easier for drivers to see you at night – wear light colors, reflective material and use a flashlight.
- Be careful crossing streets or entering crosswalks at night or on busier streets with higher speed limits.
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