Those with the Metro Nashville Police Department have released a list of tips to help raise awareness of safety on the roadways.
Officials with the department’s Traffic Section have urged those on the road to watch out for each other. They added it’s especially important during warmer weather while children play in neighborhoods.
Eighteen pedestrians died in fatal collisions in 2015, and a contributing factor in 14 of those crashes was alcohol or drug impairment on the part of the pedestrian.
A contributing factor in 13 of those deaths was due to the pedestrian being in the roadway outside of a crosswalk.
Authorities confirmed 26 percent of Nashville’s traffic fatalities in 2015 involved motorcycles, and they added there have been five motorcycle crash fatalities already this year.
Below is a complete list of pedestrian, motorist, and motorcyclist safety tips provided by Metro Police.
Pedestrians:
Be Aware:
- 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.
- Cross at crosswalks or intersections whenever possible.
- 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, wait for a gap in traffic that allows you enough time to cross safely, and continue to watch for traffic as you cross.
Be Seen:
- Never assume a driver sees you. Make eye contact with drivers as they approach.
- Be visible at all times. Wear bright clothing during the day and reflective gear at night. Carry a flashlight.
- Watch for cars entering or exiting driveways, or backing up in parking lots.
Arrive Alive:
- Avoid alcohol and drugs when walking; they impair your abilities and judgment.
Motorists:
- Look out for pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists everywhere, at all times. Safety is a shared responsibility.
- Use extra caution when driving in hard-to-see conditions.
- Slow down and be prepared to stop when entering a crosswalk.
- Yield to pedestrians in crosswalks.
- Stop a safe distance from the crosswalk to give other vehicles an opportunity to see the crossing pedestrians.
- Never pass vehicles stopped at a crosswalk. There may be people crossing that you can’t see.
- Never drive under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.
- Follow the speed limit.
- Obey speed limits in school zones and wherever children are present.
- Be extra cautious when backing up – pedestrians can move into your path.
Motorcyclists (from the Motorcycle Safety Foundation):
Be visible:
- Remember that motorists often have trouble seeing motorcycles and reacting in time.
- Make sure your headlight works and is on day and night.
- Use reflective strips or decals on your clothing and on your motorcycle.
- Be aware of the blind spots cars and trucks have.
- Flash your brake light when you are slowing down and before stopping.
- If a motorist doesn’t see you, don’t be afraid to use your horn.
Dress for safety:
- Wear a quality helmet and eye protection.
- Wear bright clothing and a light-colored helmet.
- Wear leather or other thick, protective clothing.
- Choose long sleeves and pants, over-the-ankle boots, and gloves.
- Remember – the only thing between you and the road is your protective gear.
Apply effective mental strategies:
- Constantly search the road for changing conditions to increase time and space safety margins.
- Give yourself space and time to respond to other motorists’ actions.
- Give other motorists time and space to respond to you.
- Use lane positioning to be seen; ride in the part of a lane where you are most visible.
- Watch for turning vehicles.
- Signal your next move in advance.
- Avoid weaving between lanes.
- Pretend you’re invisible, and ride extra defensively.
- Don't ride when you are tired or under the influence of alcohol or other drugs.
- Know and follow the rules of the road, and stick to the speed limit.
Know your bike and how to use it:
- Practice. Develop your riding techniques before going into heavy traffic. Know how to handle your bike in conditions such as wet or sandy roads, high winds, and uneven surfaces.
- Remember: Give yourself space. People driving cars often just don’t see motorcycles. Even when drivers do see you, chances are they’ve never been on a motorcycle and can’t properly judge your speed.
