By Travis Mooney
Arizona has some of the best weather in the country. We can e njoy outdoor activities and exercise throughout almost the entire year. The Rincon Valley Fire District would like to remind our residents of some safety considerations when driving, bicycling, and walking close to roads. Our population is growing, and we do not have as many sidewalks and streetlights as a metropolitan area, so we must do these activities with care, day or night. With more people participating in these activities, the driver’s need to always be aware of their surroundings and take care when approaching people on the side of the road, especially in areas that do not have sidewalks. Share the road.
Here are some tips taken from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration(NHTSA) for running or walking:
- Be predictable. Follow the rules of the road and obey signs and signals.
- Walk on sidewalks whenever they are available.
- If there is no sidewalk, walk facing traffic and as far from traffic as possible.
- Keep alert at all times; don’t be distracted by electronic devices that take your eyes (and ears) off the road.
- Whenever possible, cross streets at crosswalks or intersections, where drivers expect pedestrians. Look for cars in all directions, including those turning left or right.
- If a crosswalk or intersection is not available, locate a well-lit area where you have the best view of traffic. Wait for a gap in traffic that allows enough time to cross safely; continue watching for traffic as you cross.
- Never assume a driver sees you. Make eye contact with drivers as they approach to make sure you are seen.
- Be visible at all times. Wear bright clothing during the day and wear reflective materials or use a flashlight at night.
- Watch for cars entering or exiting driveways or backing up in parking lots.
- Avoid alcohol and drugs when walking; they impair your abilities and your judgment.
Here are some tips taken from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration(NHTSA) for bicycling:
- Go with the Traffic Flow. Ride on the right in the same direction as other vehicles. Go with the flow – not against it.
- Obey All Traffic Laws. A bicycle is a vehicle and you are a driver. When you ride in the street, obey all traffic signs, signals, and lane markings.
- Yield to Traffic When Appropriate. Almost always, drivers on a smaller road must yield (wait) for traffic on a major or larger road. If there is no stop sign or traffic signal and you are coming from a smaller roadway (out of a driveway, from a sidewalk, a bike path, etc.), you must slow down and look to see if the way is clear before proceeding. This also means yielding to pedestrians who have already entered a crosswalk.
- Be Predictable. Ride in a straight line, not in and out of cars. Signal your moves to others.
- Stay Alert at All Times. Use your eyes AND ears. Watch out for potholes, cracks, wet leaves, storm grates, railroad tracks, or anything that could make you lose control of your bike. You need your ears to hear traffic and avoid dangerous situations; don’t wear a headset when you ride.
- Look Before Turning. When turning left or right, always look behind you for a break in traffic, then signal before making the turn. Watch for left- or right-turning traffic.
- Watch for Parked Cars. Ride far enough out from the curb to avoid the unexpected from parked cars (like doors opening, or cars pulling out).
Remember to always wear a properly fitted helmet on a bicycle. Pay attention and always do your best to be seen (reflective clothing, bright clothing, lights at night). Always try and avoid running, walking or riding your bicycle at night, if possible. Check all traffic laws for your jurisdiction as well to ensure you are within the law. Please enjoy the outdoors, keep exercising, and stay healthy, but be sure to do so safely.
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