FROM CHIEF NOPPE. . . PEDESTRIAN YIELD SIGNS

As you have noticed there are several “Pedestrian Yield” signs on Main Street, I would like to inform both the drivers and pedestrians in our township on their responsibility in adhering to the signs function.

PEDESTRIANS.
Look to make sure cars are “slowing down or stopping to yield” before you cross the street and continue to be aware of traffic while crossing.

Cross after checking again, “but a pedestrian shall not suddenly leave a curb or other place of safety and walk or run into a path of a vehicle that is so close that it is impossible for the driver to yield. Be certain cards have stopped before you continue to cross and even while you are crossing. Be aware of traffic. 

MOTORIST. 
Look for pedestrians near or in the crosswalk. 
Respond when you see a pedestrian at or in the crosswalk. Drivers “shall yield the right-of-way, slowing down or stopping if need be to so yield”, to a pedestrian crossing the roadway within a crosswalk. 

Slow down or stop to yield behind the sign YIELD HERE TO PEDESTRIANS in advance of the crossing and remain behind the sign until all pedestrians “on the half of the roadway on which the vehicle is traveling or when the pedestrian is approaching so closely from the opposite half of the road as to be in danger” have cleared. 

Proceed slowly and with caution after the pedestrians have cleared the driving lane of the crossing. 

Pedestrian Crossing Safety Tips:
1. Stay alert. Do not be distracted while crossing the street, pay attention to your surroundings. 

2. Always look before crossing and wait for traffic to clear before starting to cross (motor vehicles have the right-of-way unless you are already in the crosswalk). Continue to look while crossing. 

3. Be cautious. Never assume a driver can see or will stop. Make eye contact with the driver as they approach. 

4. Make yourself visible. Wear bright clothing during the day and reflective clothing after dark. Using a flashlight in the evening and early morning will help make you more visible. ALWAYS cross at marked crosswalks, or at an intersection.