Surrey’s traffic intersections, busy and not so busy, are becoming “I don’t care” zones, and it’s in everybody’s best interest to reverse this trend.
First, pedestrians.
Sure, you have the right of way on a crossing signal but this does not give you license to be a jerk. When the signal changes in your favour, look both ways, make certain no motorist is going to take you out on a right hand turn – this is where making eye contact with drivers is important – and then cross the street.
Don’t fiddle around with your phone at curbside, leaving motorists who are wanting to turn left hanging in the middle of the intersection before you finally get around to crossing. And for goodness sake, stop looking at your phone when you’re crossing the street. It’ll be there when you safely get to the other side.
Be aware of your surroundings. Don’t cross like you’re a turtle or snail. Respect the drivers. In other words, don’t be a dummy, or an “I don’t care” pedestrian, or both.
Second, drivers – especially those turning right at an intersection.
Look both ways, not just at oncoming traffic. When the pedestrian has the right of way, respect that, however much you think some pedestrians are not worthy. Don’t try to sneak by them while they are in mid-street.
Do not try to sneak in a right turn before they step out into the crosswalk to cross. This especially applies to got-to-go commercial truck drivers. You know who you are.
Don’t go blasting around corners. Respect the pedestrians.
In other words, don’t be a dummy, or an “I don’t care” driver, or both.
Be aware, be courteous.
For drivers, safety trumps hasty. And for pedestrians, once you’ve determined it’s safe, better to rush than be mush.
– Now-Leader
edit@surreynowleader.com
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