Our View: Mind the rules on pedestrians

A loyal reader stopped into the Pine Knot News office to chat the other day, and pointed out how few motorists understand the concept that a pedestrian has the right of way.

We would like to remind all drivers that it's state law to stop for pedestrians in a crosswalk. But it's not just the law that we are promoting, it's common decency. When you see someone at a crosswalk, it's smart to slow down. If they step off the curb, you should stop.

Pedestrians have to participate, too. It's frustrating to slow down or stop at a crosswalk, when the kids are simply standing there chatting with each other with no intention of crossing the street. But pedestrians also need to remember that drivers may not see a kid crossing the street, or notice a bicycle on the right when turning. They must be vigilant.

The American Automobile Association has some suggestions for summer drivers that we endorse as well:

• Know your driving blindspot. Just because you can't see it doesn't mean it's not there. Turn your head and use your blinkers.

• Scan around parked cars for children playing. They can dart out with little warning.

• Be aware around playgrounds, schools, parks, and other areas where children congregate.

• Make eye contact with children at intersections. It will help you figure out what they are going to do next.

Children, especially, do not always pay attention when on public streets and roads. We owe it to them to drive carefully, and to stay aware.

There's an old saying that pedestrians have the right of way, but there's no value in trying to prove it. If everyone is diligent, we'll all be safer.