Letters and Comments for September 10, 2009

Letters and Comments for September 10, 2009

Pedestrians get right of way

To the Editor:

I would like to remind drivers of some of the rules regarding pedestrians and crosswalks. When the light turns green for you to turn but there is a pedestrian in the crosswalk, the driver’s manual states that drivers must give the pedestrian the right of way and that you may not turn until the pedestrian has completely crossed the street and stepped onto the curb.

I have had several encounters with impatient drivers while crossing at Adams Avenue and Fourth Street. Last week I had the worst encounter. I waited on the corner for the light to tell me I could cross. When it did, I quickly looked both ways and started crossing. There was a pick-up truck that proceeded to turn left from Fourth Street (by the library) onto Adams. The driver had the window rolled down and looked right at me and smiled, but he kept driving. I had to run to get out of the way! He passed through the intersection when I was half way across the street.

I do understand that sometimes people get distracted and make mistakes, but maybe it would help if people could be reminded of the rules.

Sherri Shelman

La Grande