 "Photo: Photo by: Will Trentman")
For drivers, stopping at crosswalks isn’t just a courtesy, it’s the law. In fact, according to a Tampa Police Department officer, failure to stop at a crosswalk is a moving violation that could result in a $125 fine.
Florida state statute 316.003(6) defines a crosswalk as, “Any portion of a roadway at an intersection or elsewhere, distinctly indicated for a pedestrian crossing by lines or other markings on the surface.” Page seven of the document states, “The driver of a vehicle at any crosswalk where signage so indicates shall stop and remain stopped to allow a pedestrian to cross a roadway.”
So why don’t people stop? Perhaps they are racing to a fire or some other life threatening incident. Maybe they never read the Florida driver’s handbook. More than likely it’s because we live in an egocentric society, where individuals believe their time and needs are more important than everyone else’s.
Whatever the reason, people blow through crosswalks as if they weren’t even there. So, which vehicles put students’ lives in danger by giving no consideration to this law? The answer could surprise you.
Observation of one particular crosswalk located on Palm Avenue, in Ybor City gave some interesting results.
Vehicles like Hartline buses rarely stop for pedestrians at this site. No doubt, it’s because their scheduled stop is less than a block away. Nevertheless, they are still breaking the law by not first stopping at the crosswalk.
Other law breakers witnessed include a garbage truck and several vehicles with the City of Tampa seal on the door.
It’s no wonder students don’t feel safe walking across this road; if Tampa city officials pooh-pooh this law, how can they expect other drivers to stop at these crossings?
It’s high time everyone begin following crosswalk laws. People have a right to cross the road without putting their lives in danger.
Don’t celebrate just yet people. With rights come responsibilities, and you walkers have a few to follow as well.
State statute 361130(8) says, “No pedestrian shall suddenly leave a curb or other place of safety and walk or run into the path of a vehicle which is so close that it is impossible for the driver to yield.”
Pedestrians should obey the crosswalk code of courtesy. When drivers do stop, there is nothing wrong with a smile, a nod, or a wave of thanks.
Furthermore, stay off the phone. It won’t kill you to wait until you get to the other side to answer a call. On the other hand, stepping into traffic while texting, just might. Just because cars are supposed to stop, doesn’t mean they will.
Finally, when you cross be quick about it. Taking your sweet time is arrogant and is part of the reason people don’t stop.
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