ICYMI: Police, Disability Commission Remind Drivers About Crosswalk Safety

Trish Malphrus said she’s heard too many “near miss” stories lately when it comes to Swampscott’s crosswalks.

“In the community, we’ve had a lot of incidents with people nearly getting hit with cars that run through stoplights,” Malphrus said, adding that one vision-impaired man reported a car passed closely enough that he could feel the vehicle’s mirror.

Malphrus is the chair of Swampscott’s Disability Commission and said board is ”really concerned that people need to have a reminder” of how to handle the crosswalks in town, especially during the busy summertime.

“People just need to be reminded what a crosswalk is for,” Malphrus said. “People have just forgotten.”

Swampscott Police Lt. Tom Stephens said police recently wrapped up a week of heightened crosswalk details thanks to a grant the department received. He didn’t know how many citations were issued, but he said that drivers should note police are always hyper-aware of where pedestrians meet vehicle traffic in town.

“We’re always very conscious of [crosswalks], Stephens said. “We also have been directed by the chief to pay attention. In the summer, crosswalks are always much more active. We want to remind people to be aware.”

Stephens explained that drivers should approach crosswalks much as they would approach a yellow light.

“If you can stop safely, you’re required to,” Stephens said. Explaining that drivers should not unsafely slam on their brakes just to stop for a pedestrian waiting to cross the street. He did add, however, that drivers are responsible for scanning the road far enough ahead that they are generally able to stop for pedestrians, and it’s up to a police officer’s discretion as to whether a driver who didn’t stop could have done so safely.

Drivers who do cruise through crosswalks can face a fine of $200 per violation, Stephens said.

In Swampscott, Stephens said Humphrey Street is likely the busiest area for both pedestrians and vehicles.