ALERT: Winter rain and darkness dangerous for pedestrians

Winter rain and darkness dangerous for pedestrians
Tuesday, December 4, 2007

KING COUNTY, WASHINGTON - The dark and rainy months from November to February have been the deadliest for pedestrians in King County, with the highest number of deaths in December, according to new analysis by Public Health - Seattle & King County.

“At this time of year, it’s dark during hours when many people are active on foot. For everyone’s safety, drivers need to slow down and take the time to watch for pedestrians at bus stops, intersections, downtown streets and residential areas,” said Dr. David Fleming, Director and Health Officer for Public Health - Seattle & King County. “Pedestrians can increase their safety by wearing reflective clothing or flashing reflectors and by carrying flashlights.”

Based on records from the King County Medical Examiner’s Office, motorists struck and killed 80 pedestrians in the county from 2004 to 2006. Among the findings:

• 49% of the fatalities were in November (8), December (13), January (8) and February (10).
• The majority of these pedestrians, 55%, were killed in Seattle.
• Sixty-one deaths, or 76%, were of pedestrians over age 40.
• Downtown Seattle, Rainier Avenue South, Aurora Avenue/State Route 99, and the interstates were particularly dangerous areas for pedestrians.
• “Streets are shared spaces,” said Seattle Police Chief Gil Kerlikowske.
• Drivers need to anticipate stopping for pedestrians, no matter who has the right-of-way. Pedestrians should assume drivers do not see them and always use care when crossing roadways, even at intersections."

Other pedestrian safety tips

• Use paths and sidewalks. If you must walk on or near a road, walk facing oncoming traffic and stay as far to the side as possible. Always look for oncoming traffic.
• Many times a driver will not see a pedestrian, so use special caution when crossing a multi-lane roadway and more than one lane of cars needs to stop. Similarly, use caution at intersections since turning vehicles are especially dangerous.
• Follow traffic signals and crossing signage. Cross only at designated areas, especially on roads with high volumes of traffic like Aurora Avenue North or Rainier Avenue South.
• Never cross a freeway or interstate unless there is a designated pedestrian path with a crosswalk. If your vehicle needs assistance, park as far from the roadway as possible and call 911 from a cellular phone and wait in the vehicle for assistance.
• Being on the roadways after drinking should be avoided. Nationally, in 2005, 44% of pedestrian fatalities involved alcohol-consumption by the driver, pedestrian, or both.

For more information on pedestrian and traffic safety, please visit: www.metrokc.gov/health/injury

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