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Last updated: Thursday, June 11, 1998

Sheriff Hathaway stresses caution to pedestrians and cyclists

Walking and cycling are safe, efficient and relatively inexpensive forms of exercise. As Americans are becoming more health conscious, these activities are becoming increasingly popular. However, says Caddo Parish Sheriff Don Hathaway, there are some safety risks involved.

"Nationwide, pedestrians and cyclists represent 15 percent of all traffic fatalities," Sheriff Hathaway said, "and in large cities, they account for more than half of all traffic fatalities."

Are you in danger? According to Sheriff Hathaway, there are a number of safety precautions you should be aware of to better ensure your safety.

National Safety Council statistics show runners, cyclists and pedestrians account for a staggering 90,000 injuries in the United States every year. Of those 90,000, an alarming 7,000 people die. The leading cause is an oncoming motor vehicle.

Sheriff Hathaway points to a specific problem which influences these statistics.

"Perhaps the biggest mistake walkers, runners and cyclists make is assuming it is the driver's responsibility to keep them safe," the Sheriff said. "And, safety is not automatic just because you walk or bike in a safe neighborhood. Accidents can just as easily occur on a quiet residential street as along a busy thoroughfare."

There are several things pedestrians and cyclists can do to protect themselves, particularly if they are exercising at night when visibility is greatly diminished. To promote the benefits of physical activity and give people the confidence they need to feel safe, Sheriff Hathaway offers a dozen suggestions.

• If you are a pedestrian, stay on the sidewalk and always use the crosswalk. Avoid areas where sidewalks and crosswalks are not present.
• Do not be stubborn. Even if you have the right-of-way, let the car go first. They may not see you. It's always a better decision to give up your turn, than your life. Remember, it's far better to let the other person be wrong than for you to be "dead right."
• Always walk facing traffic, and always ride with traffic.
• Obey traffic signals and stop at the curb before crossing the street. Look left, right and left again before crossing.
• When cycling, always stay out of a driver's blind spot.
• Before crossing the street, make eye contact with the driver, a commonly accepted signal that you are going to cross the street.
• Wear bright colors. If exercising at night, wear reflective bands.
• Do not wear headphones. They may cause you not to hear the sounds of potentially dangerous situations.
• If walking, carry a flashlight. If cycling, have a headlight and rear light or reflector installed on your bike.
• If it can be avoided, do not walk or bike alone, especially when it is dark. The majority of accidents occur after nightfall.

"Walking and cycling are healthy activities," Sheriff Hathaway concluded. "But, if you decided you want to start, check with your physician before beginning this heart-healthy aerobic exercise. By following your doctor's advice and these simple safety precautions, walking and cycling can be healthy, fun and safe forms of exercise."

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