RICHMOND (WINA) – Last week’s fatal pedestrian accident on 29 near Hydraulic Road was one of 11 fatal pedestrian accidents in the last two weeks, and that has State Police’s attention. State Police’s Matt Demlein says that compares to 19 the entire year, so more than half have happened in a short span of time.  So, they’re putting out cautionary advice for both pedestrians and drivers on and along our roadways:

• Be predictable, follow the rules of the road and obey signs and signals.
• Plan a route with safe crossings.
• Avoid distractions, alcohol and drugs, and be alert.
• Dress to be seen, but never assume drivers see you.
• Wear reflective clothing and carry a blinking light or flashlight at night.
• Walk on sidewalks facing traffic.
• If there’s no sidewalk, walk facing traffic and as far from traffic as possible.
• Watch for cars backing up, especially in parking lots and driveways.
• Cross at crosswalks or intersections – where drivers expect pedestrians. While crossing, look for cars in all directions, including those turning left or right, and make eye contact with turning drivers before proceeding when possible.
• Turning vehicles can be especially dangerous at intersections. If there is no crosswalk or intersection, go to a well-lit area with the best view of traffic, wait until there is enough time to cross safely, and continue to watch for traffic while crossing.

Demlein says drivers have a role to play in pedestrian safety as well. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, drivers should always look for pedestrians, and use extra caution in hard-to-see conditions. Drivers should also slow down and be prepared to stop when entering a crosswalk. Drivers should also yield to pedestrians in a crosswalk, and never pass stopped vehicles at a crosswalk. NHTSA also asks drivers to follow speed limits when people are around, and in school zones and neighborhoods. Drivers should also be extra cautious when backing up.