Sharing the road key to pedestrian and motorist safety

Summer officially begins this weekend, but for the past few weeks – since the school year ended and as temperatures warmed – downtown sidewalks and walking paths have seen increased use.

Students, now out of school, are biking, walking and skating to summer camps, afternoons at the pool and other adventures.

Combined with the regular pedestrian traffic in and around town, Sidney Police Chief B.J. Wilkinson said those behind the wheel and those on foot need to pay attention to their surroundings.

"The greatest thing that pedestrians can for themselves is to pay attention," he said. "We have a tendency when we're out walking to be engaged in other things – we're looking at the scenery, we're engaged in conversation with the person were walking with, we're fighting with the dog on the leash, we're texting, we're listening to our music, we're doing whatever."

But it's important when crossing driveways, alleyways and streets to be aware.

"Always be watching, always be listening, always be thinking about what's coming," he explained. "Pedestrians, unfortunately, are hard to see when you're driving – and of course there's a whole series of other things going on in cars with drivers, included distracted driving."

Remembering the things motorists were taught in driver's education classes is a good start.

"Your hands are at 10 and 2, you're paying attention, your head is on a swivel, you're watching, you're listening, you're smelling," Wilkinson said. "You're using all of your senses because you're driving a 3,500-pound weapon that could easily kill you or someone else."

According to state statue, drivers are required to stop for pedestrians in crosswalks.

"Pedestrians always have the right away," he added. "That's the most important one to know."

In downtown, extra care should be taken at alleyways.

"Stop before the sidewalk and look both ways, because you're not only negotiating the street, but that sidewalk first," Wilkinson said. "So you're looking for foot traffic, skateboarders, scooter riders, long board riders."

For those navigating Sidney by pedals and two wheels, even where sidewalks exist, they should share the roadway with traffic – travelling with the flow of traffic and observing all traffic laws.

"That means you've got to stop at stop signs, you have to stop at stop lights," he said. "You can turn right on red after stopping."

While not prohibited, bicycles should not be ridden on sidewalks.

"It's not illegal, but it doesn't make sense," he said. "It's called a sidewalk for a reason. It's on the side of the road and you're supposed to walk on it."

While riding at night and other dimly lit times, reflectors, a headlight and a flashing red light at the rear of the bike are good ideas.

Helmets should be worn at all times.

"The pavement is unforgiving, concrete is unforgiving," Wilkinson said. "If you think you're going to win a fight with the curb, it's not going to happen."

Special attention by everyone – regardless of mode of transportation – should be given near areas where there is likely be a concentration of kids, and that includes parks, the community center, athletic fields, the library and schools.

"Kids continue to use the playgrounds at our schools in the summer time," he explained. "Lot's of people don't think about that."

Staying safe on roads, sidewalks and trails entails an awareness by everyone.

And for those behind the wheel, slow down, Wilkinson added.

"If I could just get everyone in town to slow down 5 mph from the normal pace they move around, I'd be happy," Wilkinson said.

Road safety tips for pedestrians

• Use sidewalks or walking paths.

• Cross at street corners, crosswalks and traffic control devices.

• Don't text and walk or iPod and walk – take ear buds out of cars and listen and watch for traffic.

• Young kids should cross streets with adults or older children.

• When crossing the street, look at drivers and wait until they look at you before stepping into the street.

• Wear bright colors or reflective clothing.

• Watch parked vehicles – you never know when they are going to move.

• If there isn't a sidewalk, walk facing traffic at edge of road.

• Pay attention and be ready for anything.

Provided by the Sidney Police Department