Crosswalk Safety Tips

Crosswalk Safety Tips - What You and Your Child Should Know

Florida traffic laws lay out the rules of the road that enable pedestrians and drivers to share the road. Pedestrians - just like drivers; must obey traffic laws. To learn more, visit "Overview: Pedestrian Laws".

Pedestrians should always use the proper search pattern and follow these safety steps when crossing the road, even when using pedestrian signals:

• Stop at the curb or edge of the street. If vehicles parked on the street block your view of traffic, move forward to the edge of the line of parked vehicles where you can observe traffic in both directions. Be visible to drivers and recognize when to yield to motorists.
• Look left, right, then left again for approaching traffic.
  
• At an intersection corner, also check over your shoulder for turning vehicles.
• Determine whether there is a gap in traffic that is safe for both pedestrian and driver. Never assume that drivers see you or will stop for you.
• When there is a safe gap in traffic, walk directly across the street at a consistent pace. Avoid distracted walking by continuously looking out for motorists or other hazards. Drivers may not be attentive to driving or may not be accustomed to pedestrians sharing the road. Always watch for any quick turning movements or drivers disregarding Florida traffic laws.

When a crossing guard is present:

The primary responsibility of adult school crossing guards is to help children cross the street in a safe and efficient manner as the children walk to and from school. This is best accomplished if all road users - the crossing guard, pedestrians, and drivers are aware of the following:

• Drivers should always be attentive to pedestrians, especially Florida's youngest, crossing the street.
• Drivers should always avoid in-vehicle distractions and, of course, abide by the speed limit, especially in a school speed zone.
• Children should not follow the guard into the roadway.
• The guard will verbally direct children to look and cross the roadway.
• When the last child has reached the opposite curb, the crossing guard will leave the roadway.
• The crossing guard is the first to enter and the last to leave the street.