Traffic safety extends to drivers, pedestrians Published April 18, 2008 By Tech. Sgt. Russell Cooper 39 Air Base Wing Safety Office INCIRLIK AIR BASE, Turkey -- While pedestrian fatalities have decreased over the last five years, we will always be exposed to traffic hazards. It's important we stay vigilant day and night and do the "right thing" to ensure our safety and the safety of our coworkers. More than 60 percent of pedestrian deaths occur during the hours of darkness, even though there is less pedestrian and vehicle traffic at night. The main cause for these accidents is poor pedestrian visibility. There are numerous things we can do to lower our chances of becoming a night-time pedestrian accident or fatality statistic. For example, we should wear light-colored clothing when walking near streets. However, while additional clothing or even an umbrella can provide comfort in inclement weather, they may also block our view of approaching vehicles. Along with carefully considering our clothing, we should be aware of our surroundings, and refrain from "jaywalking" or crossing the street in the middle of the block. We should never assume we have the right-of-way, even in situations where a driver is legally required to yield. In fact, when crossing a street, we should pick a spot from where we can easily see in both directions. When sidewalks are not available, we should walk facing traffic and keep as far from the road as possible. Nearly half of pedestrian mishaps involve alcohol, so while drinking and walking might not carry the same stigma as drinking and driving, it does pose its own hazards. - Staggering into traffic - Not realizing where you are or losing your sense of direction - Thinking you are fast enough to cross the street before a vehicle comes by Drivers certainly have responsibilities of their own, as well. Most important among them may be keeping an eye out for pedestrians who may be about to cross the street in front of us. We should also pay close attention when backing out of parking spaces or driveways or driving through residential areas as children have a way of suddenly appearing from "nowhere" and darting across the street. There are numerous clues which indicate the presence of pedestrians: lawn mowers and children's toys are two of many different hazards. It may be wise to remember a ball rolling across the street is likely to be followed by a child chasing it. Along with watching for children, we should watch for pedestrians entering the street from behind parked vehicles or vehicles stopped in the roadway such as school buses or moving vans. If we follow the "rules of the road" and stay vigilant, we can increase our safety substantially and ensure our mission is successful. Remember, It's your life, your choice - choose wisely!