Just under 70 percent of fatalities in Clark and Washoe counties year-to-date have been road users without the benefit of a vehicle to buffer them, or “vulnerable” road users.
The state’s two largest counties have already seen 13 lives lost in less than three weeks into the New Year; seven of these were pedestrians, and one each for motorcycle and ATV riders. As is true with 99 percent of all crashes, these tragedies could have been preventable:
• Four of seven pedestrians were crossing the street without benefit of a crosswalk or intersection.
• Six of seven pedestrians were killed without the benefit of daylight, and were not carrying or wearing lights or reflectors to help motorists see them.
• Two of seven pedestrians were crossing appropriately, where drivers should have anticipated them and stopped, but the driver failed to do so.
• The motorcycle rider improperly crossed the center lane into another motorcyclist.
• The ATV driver was speeding on a street where it was not legal to ride.
Joining Forces, a multi-agency, highly visible enforcement program designed to improve driver behavior will be concentrating efforts to keep pedestrians safe by issuing citations to those breaking traffic laws during the following dates: Pedestrian Enforcement, Feb. 3–11; Pedestrian Enforcement, Feb. 26-March 11
Reminding all road users to follow some of the most basic rules of the road will save lives:
Pedestrians
1. Use intersections and marked mid-block crosswalks only.
2. Between dusk and dawn, wear bright clothing or accessories that can be seen at night.
3. Continue to look for oncoming traffic until the other side of the road is reached.
4. Make eye contact with drivers before stepping into the street.
Drivers
1. Obey speed limits and know when conditions warrant even slower speeds, including streets not well lit.
2. Check intersections and mid-block crosswalks for waiting pedestrians, and yield to them.
3. As a motorcyclist, pay full attention to side streets and driveways.
4. Never ride without a proper DOT-compliant helmet.
5. ATVs are never allowed on the street.
No matter what form of transportation you use, take responsibility for others around you and respect their right to use the road. Make sure you’re predictable, alert, and focused on your safety and on the safety of those around you.
Joining Forces, a multi-agency, highly visible enforcement program designed to improve driver behavior will be concentrating efforts to keep pedestrians safe by issuing citations to those breaking traffic laws during the following special events:
Pedestrian Enforcement February 3 – 11, 2015
Pedestrian Enforcement February 26 – March 11,2015
The Nevada Department of Public Safety, Office of Traffic Safety advises motorists and pedestrians to share the road, stay alert, be aware of your surroundings and abide by laws designed to protect all road users.
