With the new school year approaching, East Grand Rapids Public Safety has tips for drivers, pedestrians and bicyclists to ensure those busy morning and afternoon commutes are safe and smooth.
“Student safety is a top priority for East Grand Rapids Public Safety,” EGR School/Community Liaison Officer Troy Brown said. “Our pedestrian-friendly city encourages many students to walk or bike to school, making it important for community members to be on top of their safety game this school year.”
Safety tips
Here are some safety reminders for drivers, cyclists and pedestrians to keep in mind this school year:
- Safety is a community effort – everyone needs to pay close attention to the road.
- If no crossing guard is present, make eye contact with the pedestrian or driver to ensure a safe street crossing.
- Walk bikes while crossing a street and always wear a helmet.
- Ensure bikes are working properly before the first day of school.
- Obey the “no turn on right” signs at red lights during school hours and always use a turn signal.
- Always cross at an intersection – it can be difficult for drivers to see pedestrians crossing elsewhere in the neighborhoods and through Gaslight Village due to street parking.
- Stay alert and off your phone. If you are listening to music, make sure it is either at a level you can hear traffic or you only have one earbud in.
- Do not continue driving until all pedestrians have safely reached the sidewalk.
- As daylight hours shorten, pedestrians and bicyclists should wear reflective clothing or gear so they are easily visible to drivers.
- Follow crossing guard prompts – it may take a few extra minutes, but it provides a safe commute for students.
- Plan your commute by checking eastgr.org/construction for all roadwork updates.
- Visit eastgr.org/safety for crossing guard post locations, schedules and additional pedestrian safety videos.
New Michigan distracted driving law
Additionally, drivers need to keep in mind the state’s distracted driving law that went into effect this summer. Under this law, it is illegal to manually use a cell phone or other mobile electronic device while operating a vehicle – including when stopped at a light or in traffic – on Michigan roads. This means drivers cannot hold their phones or use them for the following activities:
- Accessing, reading or posting to social media.
- Browsing the internet.
- Entering information into a GPS or navigation system.
- Making or answering a phone or video call.
- Sending or reading an email or text message.
- Watching, recording or sending a video.
The law is intended to reduce distracted driving, which can have fatal consequences on our streets and roads. The law applies to all drivers and includes exceptions for calling 911 during an emergency.
The penalty for violating the law is a $100 fine for the first offense. This fine increases for subsequent violations. In addition to fines, drivers who violate the law may also receive points on their driving record.
“Michigan’s new hands-free law aims to make our roads safer for everyone,” East Grand Rapids Public Safety Chief Mark Herald said. “Being alert with minimal distractions helps everyone remain safe and aware of their surroundings. This is especially critical in communities like East Grand Rapids where we have steady pedestrian and bicycle traffic during the school year.”