By the USAG Stuttgart Safety Office
With the winter months approaching and the days getting darker, please be reminded of pedestrian safety!
Recently, the Garrison Safety Office received a near miss report where a vehicle failed to stop at a crosswalk on post, nearly striking a pedestrian. Remember, pedestrians have the right of way at all crosswalks on post! Generally, bicycles do not have the right of way on crosswalks – operators should dismount and walk across to have right of way.
Pedestrian reminders:
- Be Visible: Especially during periods of poor visibility (nighttime or inclement weather).
- Stay Alert: Don’t be a distracted walker. Put phones down and keep your head up.
- Unplug: No earbuds around roadways. Your ears are some of your best safety tools!
- Follow Rules: Never assume drivers will give you the right of way. Always make eye contact.
Driver reminders:
- Slow Down – Way Down: Give yourself time to observe, process, detect and react to hazards.
- Stay Alert: Mindfully observe. Keep your eyes on the road. Put phones down and out of reach.
- Watch Out: Be on the lookout for pedestrians and bicycles. Safety is a shared responsibility.
- Stop at Crosswalks: Train yourself to actively look for pedestrians in/approaching crosswalks.
- Turn Carefully: Look in all directions before taking a turn. Be prepared for the unexpected.
- Be Vigilant: Especially around stopped/parked vehicles. People can step out and surprise you.
- Follow Rules: Obey the speed limit. Use extra caution in hard-to-see conditions.
- Reflect: If you have a near miss, take a minute to debrief – why did you miss seeing that
person? What was the situation? Driving distracted? How can you prevent it happening again?
For more information, please click here or contact the USAG Stuttgart Safety Office
Stay safe and alert this winter!