As the we see more people out utilizing our crosswalks throughout town, we at the Rangely Police Department would like to remind everyone that pedestrians in any of our marked cross walks have the right away and vehicles must come to a complete stop to allow the pedestrians to cross the road in accordance with C.R.S 42-4-802. Pedestrians crossing the road outside of a marked cross walk are required to yield the right away to passing vehicles.
We would also like to remind pedestrians if you are wanting to wait for the roadway to clear entirely before you cross, please don't stand immediately in the cross walk as the passing vehicles are required to stop by state law. Drivers that fail to stop for pedestrians in cross walks are subject to a citation!
Safety Tips For Pedestrians
As a pedestrian, it is your responsibility to make yourself visible and avoid dangerous behavior and situations. When possible, utilize the sidewalk, if not available, you should walk against the flow of traffic. Always obey crossing signals, but make sure to look both ways before crossing into the street. Even if you have the right of way, it is important to realize that vehicles may not always stop. Make eye contact with drivers and pay attention to the environment around you. If you are wearing headphones or talking on your cell phone while crossing the street, it is important to pay attention to your surroundings and take extra care to avoid dangerous situations.
Safety Tips For Drivers
It is important for drivers to be aware of crossing pedestrians at all times, whether they are in marked or unmarked crosswalks. Obey the posted speed limit and always be prepared to stop for pedestrians who may not see or hear you. It is also the driver's responsibility to maintain a safe speed when driving through residential and school areas. You should always avoid aggressive driving and never pass a vehicle that is stopped at a pedestrian crosswalk. When turning, make sure to be alert for pedestrians and give them the right-of-way. It is common for pedestrians to enter the crosswalk while you are waiting for a gap in traffic.