Letters to the Editor

Editor:

I almost hit a pedestrian in a crosswalk recently. The sun was directly in my eyes, and my vision was temporary restricted.

This incident was my fault. There are several things I could have done to prevent this near accident.

However, there is one thing that a pedestrian can do to help protect their own safety, and that is, make eye contact with the driver before entering the crosswalk.

If the driver does not look at you, there is a very good chance that he or she does not see you. All too often, I see people entering the crosswalks without looking either way except straight ahead.

I have not seen this suggestion in a LW bulletin or safety class but I believe it is a good suggestion and all our pedestrians should adopt the practice.

Bill Bauer Mutual 14 Editor:

On Jan. 1, AB 413, also known as the “daylighting” bill, officially takes effect. On that date violators can be cited for violation. The bill aims to enhance pedestrian safety particularly at crosswalks.It allows motorists to be able to see pedestrians better as they approach crosswalks.

Motorists are not allowed to park within 20 feet of the vehicle approach side of any marked or unmarked crosswalk.

There are numerous areas in Leisure World that will be affected by this new law. Many areas currently provide poor visibility for both motorists and pedestrians.

One area of poor visibility is the crosswalks on Church Place. A pedestrian has to be almost half way across the street to see oncoming vehicles.

Vehicles approaching the crosswalks have difficulty seeing pedestrians. This is primarily due to the diagonal parking in that area.

For the safety of all our pedestrians, GRF needs to ensure all affected areas are marked as “ No Parking” or with red curbs. Security's parking enforcement needs to cite violators with a warning or citation.

Daylighting is a simple way to improve safety and save lives.

Robert Dufney Mutual 1