By Sarah Elmquist Squires and Ernie Over
Managing Editor and Wyotoday
As WYDOT crews – once again – replaced the crosswalk warning lights at Main and First streets in Riverton, it might be time for a refresher course on safe driving, especially with kids crossing roadways in town on their way to and from school.
The crosswalk warning was replaced after being knocked down three times since it was installed last year by motorists careening over the median. This time, 10 new bright yellow reflective posts were installed to help alert drivers, especially those coming from First Street, to make a wider turn there.
WYDOT District 5 Public Relations Spokesperson Cody Beers said the replacements were paid by the motorists’ respective insurance companies, and the crosswalk is meant to protect pedestrians crossing Main from the Rails to Trails Pathway.
Safety tips
The National Safety Council has warned that most children killed in bus-related crashes are the youngest – 4 to 7 years old – and are on foot, struck by a bus or by a motorist illegally passing a stopped bus. Taking the time to slow down and take caution can make all the difference in the life of a child just learning how to be a safe pedestrian.
The National Safety Council advises drivers not to block the crosswalk when stopped at a red light, or when waiting to make a turn. Doing so can force pedestrians to go around you, which can put them in the way of moving vehicles.
Slow down in school zones, always yield to pedestrians and crossing guards, and take special care in looking for children in school zones, residential zones, and near playgrounds and parks. Be sure not to pass a vehicle stopped for pedestrians – and, take care to observe when a vehicle is stopped at a crosswalk, even if you don’t see a person crossing.
For more information on safe driving when school is in session, visit https://www.nsc.org/community-safety/safety-topics/school-safety/back-to-school-safety-tips-for-drivers.