The education campaign emphasizes the “See! Be Seen!” message for driver and pedestrian awareness. The “See!” aspect of this campaign encourages drivers to:
- Stop for pedestrians at crosswalks and intersections
- Do not block crosswalks when stopped at an intersection
- Do not run red lights
- Slow down and obey speed limits
- Always look for pedestrians, particularly when turning at a green light or making a right turn on red
- Take extra care around schools, playgrounds and neighborhoods
The “Be Seen!” aspect of this campaign encourages pedestrians to:
- Cross at intersections and marked crosswalks
- Use pedestrian push-buttons where available and wait for the signal to cross
- Use sidewalks; if there are no sidewalks, walk facing traffic so you see vehicles and drivers see you
- Stay visible after dark and in bad weather by wearing light-colored or reflective clothing
- Watch for vehicles backing out of parking spaces and exiting driveways
- Make eye contact with drivers so they see you
- Look left, look right, and then look left again before crossing a street
“This comprehensive initiative will make it safer and easier to walk in communities all across New York State, a tangible example of Governor Cuomo’s continuing commitment to improving the quality of life for us and our children,” New York State Department of Transportation Commissioner Matthew J. Driscoll said. “We are pleased to partner with the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee, the State Department of Health, local police and traffic safety officials on this proactive, multifaceted campaign to improve pedestrian safety.”
New York State Department of Health Commissioner Dr. Howard Zucker said, “Motorists and pedestrians share responsibility for preventing jury to themselves and others. Governor Cuomo’s initiative and our partnership with the Governor’s Traffic Safety Council, Department of Motor Vehicles and Department of Transportation is educating New Yorkers on how to safely share our roadways.”
