We all have a part to play in ensuring that North Carolina’s vibrant communities have safe streets. Watch for Me NC and NC Vision Zero are the North Carolina bicycle and pedestrian safety campaign. Over 25 areas in North Carolina participate in the program.
PEDESTRIAN SAFETY
North Carolina Pedestrian Safety
Be Visible
- Wear bright or reflective materials.
- Carry a light when walking in dark conditions (including duck and dawn).
Be Alert
- When crossing a street, remove distractions which may make it hard for you to see or hear an approaching car.
- Listen for the sounds of engines and look for backup lights, especially in parking lots
Always Look
- Always look left, right, and left again before crossing a street.
- Don’t assume cars will yield to you in a crosswalk, even with a crossing signal. Make eye contact with drivers before crossing.
Teach Children to Be Safe Pedestrians
Wait For an Adult
Reinforce that streets are off limits without adult guidance. Practice walking up to the curb with your child and stopping before the road.
Freeze!
Teach your child to freeze or stop on your command (Make it fun – come up with an unusual “stop/freeze” word – like “popsicle”).
Bright Clothing
Dress your child in bright clothing to make him or her more visible to cars.
Practice Crossing
Practice crossing the street safely – looking left, right, left, and holding hands with an adult.
Hands on the Vehicle
In parking lots, have your child touch your car until you give the “password” and are ready to hold hands and move.
Look for Clues
Have your child look for “clues” that a car is about to move (rear lights, sound of motor, exhaust smoke, etc).
