Moving to Europe has been an experience. One of the things I really like to do is to watch the families and older couples stroll through the streets. They hold hands, pull on dog leashes, and talk animatedly. Some are dressed in sports clothes, others in dresses and suits. Some are walking their Yorkies, others are being dragged by their Huskies. You can see them walking in early morning, the afternoon, and midnight. Someone is always walking and crossing streets.

We take for granted that we can cross a street without incident, because most of the time we do. But sometimes we aren't so fortunate. Each year over 6,000 pedestrians die and 90,000 are injured in traffic accidents. Young children and the elderly are thought to be more likely killed or injured in a pedestrian crash. However, over half of pedestrian fatalities are working adults. While it is easy to blame drivers, they are not always responsible for these accidents. All too often, pedestrians are the cause of accidents.

ALWAYS follow these steps when crossing a street:

• Before crossing, stop at the curb, edge of the road, or comer before proceeding
• Look left-right-left, and if its clear, begin crossing, looking over your shoulder for turning vehicles.
  
  Continue to check for traffic while crossing.
  
  More tips about crossing the street and following traffic signals:
• At intersections with traffic lights and pedestrian signals, it’s important to follow the signals carefully. Wait until you see the WALK signal, following, again, the basic rules for crossing.
• A flashing DON'T WALK signal indicates you shouldn’t start to cross the street. However, if you are in the middle of the street and the DON'T WALK signal starts flashing, continue walking. You have time to complete the crossing.
• If you see a steady DON'T WALK signal, don’t begin to cross the street! Wait for the next WALK signal.
• The WALK signal and a green traffic signal indicate it’s your turn to cross the street, but they do not mean it’s safe to cross! The WALK signal and the green light mean LOOK, and IF IS CLEAR, THEN CROSS!
• Always make eye contact with drivers to ensure they see you.

Remember that crossing safely is your responsibility!