Prevent Pedestrian Crashes:  Elementary School Children
A Message for Parents of Elementary School Children

Below are some common myths that children believe about being a pedestrian.  Make sure your child knows the facts.

Myth:  A green light means that it is safe to cross.

Fact:  A green light means that you may stop and search the cars.  Before you step off the curb, look LEFT-RIGHT-LEFT, and if it is safe to do so, cross and keep looking left and right as you do so.  Be alert for vehicles making a right turn on red.

---

Myth:  You are safe in a crosswalk.

Fact:  You may cross at a crosswalk, but before you do, you must stop at the curb.  Look LEFT-RIGHT-LEFT for cars.  When it is clear, cross and keep looking left and right.

---

Myth:  If you see the driver, the driver sees you.

Fact:  The driver may not see you.  Make certain the driver sees you and stops before you cross in front of the car.  Try to make eye contact with the driver.

---

Myth:  The driver will stop if you are in a crosswalk or at a green light.

Fact:  The driver may not see you.  The driver's view may be blocked.  The driver may run a traffic light illegally.  The driver may turn without looking for pedestrians.

---

Myth:  Wearing whit at night makes you visible to drivers.

Fact:  Even if you and your child wear white clothes, drivers will have a difficult time seeing you at night.  Carry a flashlight.  Wear retro-reflective clothing.  Walk facing traffic.

Remember when crossing a street your child should always:

• Stop at the edge of parked cars, the curb, or other vehicles.
• Look LEFT-RIGHT-LEFT for moving cars.
• Cross when clear, and keep looking left and right.
• Walk, not run or dart, into the street.
• Look for signs that a car is about to move (rear lights, exhaust smoke, sound of motor, wheels turning)
• Walk alertly.