Sunday, September 4, 2011

PEDESTRIAN SAFETY

During a recent neighborhood board meeting we had a short discussion on how citizens can and cannot cross the streets in the crosswalk. It seemed there was lots of misunderstanding of the "walking man" and "no-walk hand" I'd like to post a reprint of the rules and regulations for crosswalks Island-wide.
Aloha,
Mo Radke

PEDESTRIAN SAFETY

  • ALWAYS USE A MARKED CROSSWALK.
  • MAKE EYE CONTACT WITH DRIVERS. LOOK LEFT, RIGHT, AND LEFT AGAIN
  • WEAR BRIGHT, WHITE, OR REFLECTIVE CLOTHING
  • Do not “jaywalk”. Always cross at a crosswalk.
  • When crossing at a crosswalk
    • You may only cross the street when the walking figure is illuminated and is a steady signal.
    • When the flashing “red hand” is displayed, do NOT start crossing the street. Finishing crossing the street if you are already in the crosswalk.
    • When there is a steady “red hand” displayed, DON’T WALK. Remain at the curb. Push the pedestrian button and wait for the walk signal.
    • Don’t start crossing when there is a “count down” next to the “red hand.” Continue across the street and finish crossing within the time displayed.
  • The Law
    • If you cross at a crosswalk when a steady hand is displayed or when there is a flashing signal, $130 fine
    • “Jaywalking”, $130 fine
    • No pedestrian may enter/cross ANY roadway closed to pedestrian traffic, $130 fine
    • Vehicles MUST stop for pedestrians in same half of the roadway, $130 fine

MOPED SAFETY

  • Rules
    • A moped is considered a vehicle – you are expected to follow all traffic laws
    • You need to get a license for your moped – it is the same license as required for bikes and is available at City Hall and Satellite City Hall
    • Parking – you can park at bike racks; however, you have to be sure your moped is actually chained to the bike rack
    • Make sure your lock is attached to bike rack
  • Recommendations
    • Wear a helmet
    • Do not weave between cars, it is unsafe and not allowed when properly following traffic laws

These Pedestrian Safety Tips are adapted from a publication from the Honolulu Police Department, www.honolulupd.org

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