With Warmer Weather, Schools & Police Offer Tips For Pedestrian Safety

Rapid City, S.D. – Now that the weather is warming up, many students are walking to and from school. With more children choosing to walk or bike to school, the RCAS and RCPD would like to remind drivers to be vigilant and slow down in school zones. Safety is a two way street which requires attention from both motorists and pedestrians. This is a good time for parents to reinforce safety practices when crossing the street, as well as reassess the safest walking routes to and from school.

Tips for Pedestrians and Bicyclists:

• Always use crosswalks. It might seem like a hassle to walk halfway down the block to use a crosswalk, but it could prevent a serious accident.
• Bicyclists are required by state law to stop before entering the road. Accidents often happen when cyclists enter the street without stopping. Teach your children to always stop and look for cars before entering the street.

Tips for Drivers:

• Be aware that there are pedestrians and bicyclists out and about, whether you're on a busy street or in a residential neighborhood. Slow down and stay alert.
• Stop for pedestrians at intersections and crosswalks. At crosswalks that aren't controlled by walk signals, state law dictates that drivers must stop for pedestrians entering the crosswalk.
• Never pass another car stopped at a crosswalk. Accidents often happen when one lane of traffic stops for a pedestrian to cross, but the other lanes of traffic don't.

In the coming weeks, police will continue to address traffic and crosswalk violations with regular patrols through Rapid City’s school zones. Local law enforcement and the Rapid City Area School District are committed to the safety of our children. Parents are always encouraged to teach their children good habits when it comes to safety as a pedestrian or while riding a bicycle.