Pedestrians, drivers must exercise caution to avoid mishaps

  • Published
  • By Rhonda Siciliano
  • 66th Air Base Wing Safety Office
HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. --  With nicer weather at hand, pedestrian traffic around the base has increased and so too has the risk of accidents involving vehicles and pedestrians. The 66th Air Base Wing Safety Office wants to remind base personnel to exercise caution when driving or walking, jogging to avoid pedestrian-vehicle mishaps.

Massachusetts State law and base policy require motorists to stop for pedestrians in a designated crosswalk.

"Drivers must exercise caution at all times to ensure the safety of pedestrians at crosswalks and other areas," said Master Sgt. Shelly Barton, 66th Air Base Wing Safety Office. "Drivers can exercise caution by following the rules of the road: obey the posted speed limit signs, avoid distractions while driving and anticipate the unexpected such as a pedestrian or biker crossing your path in congested areas where it can be difficult to see."

Pedestrians must also use good judgment when crossing a street to ensure that they can do so safely.

"Many folks are quick to blame the drivers in vehicle-pedestrian mishaps however; the pedestrian is more frequently at fault by crossing at unsafe places. Basic physics dictate that no matter who is right or wrong, the pedestrian will feel the brunt of the impact," Sergeant Barton said.

Pedestrians should be mindful that a crosswalk is no "safe haven," Sergeant Barton said. When crossing a street or walking in highly congested areas pedestrians should always be aware of traffic.

"The best advice is always cross at designated crosswalks. Look left -- right -- then left again before crossing a street, Sergeant Barton said. "Assume traffic will not stop, and wait until the vehicles have come to a complete stop before stepping off the curb. Pretty simple rules, but the statistics tell us that even simple rules that are broken can be deadly."

For questions or concerns about other safety issues, contact the 66th Air Base Wing Safety Office at (781) 377-5135.