Driving and Pedestrian Safety Tips from Tewksbury Police

The Tewksbury Police Department is urging drivers and pedestrians to use caution on the roads and is issuing these driver and pedestrian safety tips.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 445 pedestrians are injured across the country every day and in the next hour, on average, one pedestrian will die from injuries in a traffic crash.

Officials say with the sun setting early in the day and the occasional inclement weather, it can be difficult for drivers to see people walking in the roads. It’s vital both pedestrians and drivers take precautions to decrease the risk of injury on our streets and keep themselves and others safe.

The Tewksbury Police Department is reminding pedestrians to follow these safety tips provided by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA):

• Stay on sidewalks whenever they are available.

• If there is no sidewalk, walk facing traffic and as far from cars as possible.

• Keep alert at all times. Don’t be distracted by electronic devices that take your eyes (and ears) off the road.

• Cross streets at crosswalks or intersections whenever possible. This is where drivers expect pedestrians.

• If a crosswalk or intersection is not available, locate a well-lit area where you have the best view of traffic. Wait for a gap in traffic that allows you enough time to cross safely, and continue to watch for traffic as you cross.

• Never assume a driver sees you. Make eye contact with drivers as they approach you to make sure you are seen.

• Be visible at all times. Wear bright clothing during the day, and wear reflective materials or use a flashlight at night. If you don’t have reflective gear, wear a white shirt over your outer clothing.

• Watch for cars entering or exiting driveways, or backing up in parking lots.

Tewksbury Police also recommend pedestrians carry a form of identification in case there is an accident or medical emergency and remind them to never walk on railroad tracks.

Additionally, NHTSA recommends that drivers should:

• Slow down and be prepared to stop when turning or entering a crosswalk.

• Yield to pedestrians in crosswalks and stop well back from the crosswalk to give other vehicles an opportunity to see the crossing pedestrians so they can stop too.

• Do not pass vehicles stopped at a crosswalk. There may be people crossing that you can’t see.

• Never drive under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.

• Follow the speed limit, especially around people on the street.

• Be extra cautious when backing up – pedestrians can move into your path.

Residents are urged to report any traffic concerns to the Tewksbury Police Department 978-851-7373.