Should Jaywalking Be An Offense?

5 June 2007 - 1:00pm

A recent column in the Washington Post criticizes the city's crackdown on jaywalking, arguing that it only serves to discourage pedestrians.

"The District has started a serious crackdown on jaywalkers, apparently as part of the Street Smart Pedestrian & Bicycle Safety Campaign. While there is a smattering of signs aimed at motor vehicles reading "Yield to pedestrians in crosswalk," D.C. police seem more intent on targeting jaywalkers. It is worth noting that the two pedestrians tragically killed by a Metrobus at Seventh Street and Pennsylvania Avenue NW in February were not jaywalking but had the right of way in the crosswalk.

I do understand that pedestrians have a responsibility to obey traffic rules, for their own safety and that of others, but if the District is serious about ensuring a safe commute for those who walk to work, it should refocus its efforts."

Source: The Washington Post, June 4, 2007
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A few tips for would-be winter bikers: install fenders, ride slower, lower your seat so you can use your boots as an emergency brake and enjoy the Christmas-card scenery.