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Important Safety Tips for Pedestrians, Bicyclists, and Drivers

Posted on: November 8, 2021 - 1:57pm
Drive Safely

Over the past few months, Ferguson Township has seen a rise in vehicular crashes and accidents involving bicycles. The Ferguson Township Police Department has compiled a list of tips to keep you and those around you safe while out in in the Township, especially while driving at night. In fact, November is also known to have the highest risk of deer collisions in part to the change in Daylight Savings.

Drivers

Be sure to follow the speed limit and use caution at stop signs. If you are going to pass a bike, give at least a 4 foot cushion between your car and the bicyclist. Drive like it's the street you live on! Slow down - Kids, pets and other animals can dart out in front of your vehicle. Also watch for school buses: red lights mean STOP. Read Pennsylvania's School Bus Stopping law.

When driving at night, be sure to:

  • Be vigilant - It's harder to see hazards along the road.
  • Ensure your headlights are clean and working;
  • Dim your dashboard;
  • Look away from oncoming lights;
  • If you wear glasses, make sure they're anti-reflective;
  • Clean the windshield to eliminate streaks;
  • Slow down to compensate for limited visibility and reduced stopping time.
Pedestrians
  • Walk on a sidewalk or path instead of the road. If there is no sidewalk or path, walk on the shoulder facing traffic.
  • Follow the rules of the road and obey signs and signals.
  • Whenever possible, only cross the street at a designated crosswalk or intersection. Always look both ways regardless of where you cross.
  • Avoid using electronic devices like earbuds or walking especially if you are under the influence of alcohol.
  • Never assume a driver sees you, make eye contact with them before walking in front of their vehicle.
  • When out at night, carry a flashlight and wear bright, reflective clothing to increase your visibility.
Bicyclists

Be vigilant and follow the rules of the road. Laws like stopping at stop signs, obeying traffic signals & riding on the right side of the road do not just apply to motor vehicles. Bikes operated between sunset and sunrise must be equipped with lights and reflectors. Riders should wear bright / reflective clothing to make them more visible to motorists. Remember that anyone under the age of 12 must wear a helmet when riding a bicycle. However, everyone is encouraged to wear one regardless of age.

If you do bike on the road, in addition to following the rules of the road, please use hand signals:

  • To signal a left turn, extend the left hand and arm horizontally.
  • To signal a right turn, extend the right hand and arm horizontally, or extend your left hand and arm upward.
  • To signal a stop or decrease in speed, extend the left hand and arm downward. 

The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation has a Bicycle Driver's Manual which offers even more information.

In any event of an accident, call 9-1-1 and safely move your vehicle off to the side if possible.