By Sgt. Scott McDaniel
Many sunny and warm days are ahead and it goes without saying that we will have an increase in motorcycle, pedestrian, bicycle and scooter traffic. For the motorist this means paying attention to your driving and surroundings.
Many people enjoy jogging and walking when the weather turns good and this can increase the chances of a pedestrian involved crash if you are not watching the crosswalks or the running paths that intersect with the city streets. As a pedestrian you should do your best to ensure that motorists acknowledge you before crossing the street.
When two wheeled vehicles are on the roadway around Carson City, you should give them some extra room and be prepared in the event they need to swerve to avoid an object in the roadway. When passing bicyclists on the street, you must allow three feet of distance between you and the bike while passing.
Scooters should not be operated in speed zones that exceed the limits of the scooter. For example a scooter that cannot go faster than say 30 miles per hour (mph) should not be operated in a 35 mph or higher speed zone. Doing so can create traffic congestion and increases the chances of road rage incidents.
Through everyone’s vigilance and safe driving habits, crashes and injuries can be reduced. Enjoy the days ahead and look out for one another.
— Sgt. Scott McDaniel is with the Carson City Sheriff’s Office and writes regular public safety columns. He can be reached at smcdaniel@carson.org
Meanwhile, the Nevada Department of Transportation sends out this reminder: Many Nevada schoolchildren will take part in organized events that promote walking or bicycling to school on March 18, which has been proclaimed the sixth annual Nevada Moves Day by Governor Brian Sandoval.
Walking and bicycling to school events are planned for Carson City and Clark, Washoe, Douglas, Lyon, Lincoln, Elko and other counties, with more than 100 schools across the state committing to participate in Nevada Moves Day. Children not taking part in an organized school event are encouraged to involve their families in safely walking or bicycling to school on March 18 and other days.
“Whether as part of an organized event or not, Nevada Moves Day is an opportunity to help children learn more about pedestrian and bicycling safety,” NDOT Bicycle, Pedestrian and Safe Routes to School Program Manager Bill Story explained. “And, whether it’s for Nevada Moves Day or part of a daily routine, physical activity at an early age, such as walking or bicycling, helps reduce heart disease, diabetes and other obesity-related illnesses. Plus, walking or biking to school can lessen up to 25 percent of morning rush hour traffic that results from children being driven to school.”
During Nevada Moves Day and every day, drivers should watch for children walking and bicycling to school and be mindful of reduced speeds and varying school start times in school zones. Motorists should also only pass bicyclists when it is safe – with at least three feet of space between the bicycle and vehicle – and never overtake a vehicle that has stopped for pedestrians. Pedestrians and bicyclists should only cross streets when safe, and look both ways before and while crossing.
To learn about specific Nevada Moves Day events, contact Nevada Department of Transportation state Safe Routes to School Coordinator Tim Rowe at (775) 888-7357 /trowe@dot.state.nv.us or find walking information at walknevada.com or saferoutesinfo.org.
