The Town has received numerous concerns from residents about potential public safety issues at pedestrian crosswalks, particularly those that cross the busy intersections along Main Street.  Recently, we worked with the State Highway Administration - District 7 to install pedestrians-activated flashing yellow lights at the intersections of Main Street and Cone Branch Drive, and at Main Street and North Pointe Terrace, to increase pedestrian visibility and safety at those often-used crosswalks.  For October and National Pedestrian Safety Month, SHA District 7 recently posted a video about our collaboration and the new Pedestrian Safety Improvement Project.  Please click on the link below to view the crosswalk video and for more crosswalk information:

MDOT State Highway Administration - District 7 - Pedestrian Improvement Project - YouTube

Pedestrians, please be advised, activating the flashing crosswalk lights does not assign you the right of way.  The flashing yellow lights advise drivers to slow down and prepare to stop for possible pedestrians using the crosswalk.  You should always activate the lights and scan the road to make sure all oncoming vehicles are yielding and stopping, before attempting to cross the roadway. 

Our Middletown Community Deputies and the Frederick County Sheriff’s Office have provided the following tips to help pedestrians safely cross at crosswalks:

To the Citizens of Middletown,

This is a message from the Middletown Resident Deputies, Frederick County Sheriff’s Office, regarding the concerns at the many crosswalks in town. Most importantly, the safety concerns at the crosswalks located at E. Main St. at Cone Branch Dr. and W. Main St. at North Pointe Terr. Recently, Maryland State Highway department added yellow flashing lights to the crosswalk signs as a tool to assist pedestrians in crossing those intersections.  Here are some tips to help pedestrians safely cross at crosswalks:

Pedestrians

• Making Intentions Clear:  Pedestrians and cyclists should make their intention to cross the road clear to drivers by extending their arm and making eye contact, if possible. These signals help drivers understand the pedestrian's intent and plan their actions accordingly.
• Avoiding Distractions:  Pedestrians and cyclists should refrain from using mobile devices, headphones, or engaging in any other activities that might divert their attention from the traffic around them. Being fully present and attentive is crucial for their own safety.
• Abiding by Traffic Signals:  Many crosswalks are equipped with signals or traffic lights. Pedestrians and cyclists should obey these signals, crossing only when they receive the appropriate signal or when the road is clear.
• Timing and Patience:  It is vital for pedestrians and cyclists to wait for the right moment to cross, even if they have the right of way.
• Right of Way:  A pedestrian does not always have the right of way. Such instances include when a vehicle is so near the crosswalk that it is not possible for a vehicle to stop. 

Drivers

• Be aware of pedestrians in the area and their intentions to utilize the crosswalk.  Be prepared to make a complete stop, with or without the caution lights flashing.
• REMEMBER, once a pedestrian is in the crosswalk, it is Maryland Law, you MUST give the pedestrian the right of way.

 

Thanks very much to our FCSO Community Deputies and to SHA District 7 for their guidance and the new pedestrian safety improvements.  For pedestrians, please be careful when using crosswalks and always look for oncoming vehicles before crossing.  For drivers, please keep an eye out for pedestrians at crosswalks and yield when someone is crossing.  Thanks to our residents for everything you do to keep our community safe and pedestrian friendly.

Town of Middletown