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muldrew · Joined: 09 Oct 2009 Posts: 1

I'm not sure if this is the right place to put this also i am not sure of the state laws regarding pedistrians and cross walks I know we are souposed to have the right of way
My problem is I walk around the mall area shopping and such and have had cars not stop for me i have also had them go right behind me almost taking me out I have also noticed that at the crosswalk near the fire station drivers will prociede once you walk by even if the light is still red.
This is dangerious and should be looked into

Thomas · Joined: 06 Sep 2008 Posts: 16 Location: Lebanon,NH.

I agree something should be done,but I feel you shall be told as I've been on other circumstances.."We don't have the man power" & "Can't be everywhere"

paulium · Joined: 03 Aug 2009 Posts: 2 Location: Lebanon, NH

Well I grew up in California where the law is in favor of the pedestrian in the crosswalk, and cars really do stop. However, my experiences on the East Coast have led me to be much more cautious. The laws are so different from state to state that a driver may just not be aware of the local laws. And, as Thomas has pointed out, there is not the manpower to enforce these laws. So my approach now is that no matter where I am, I make eye contact with the driver before venturing out and I don't assume the care will stop. If there is no eye contact and the car keeps on going, I wait until the next car usually does stop.

Councilor Cormen · Joined: 13 Aug 2009 Posts: 17

Hello, paulium, Thomas, and muldrew.

Indeed NH law gives pedestrians the right of way in crosswalks.

Having lived in pedestrian heavens (California) and hells (NY & Boston), I sure can relate to your concerns. When on foot I do as paulium suggests; when at the wheel I make sure to stop for every pedestrian that I see.

From time to time the City has posted brightly colored signs in the middle of major crosswalks to remind drivers of this, though I have not seen those signs lately and they're impractical in winter. The Police Dept. has a portable speed trailer that helps slow down traffic near the schools.

I believe that one or both of the City Council's subcommittees--the Pedestrian and Bicycle Advisory Committee, and the Public Safety Committee--have under consideration plans to improve the safety of travel around the Lebanon Green (Colburn Park).

I encourage you to re-post any specific complaints, questions, compliments, or suggestions to the online "Lebanon Community Connection" that links directly from the City's homepage (www.lebcity.com).

I know it's frustrating to hear that the police can't be everywhere but crime is up while everyone wants lower taxes. We welcome any creative solutions...

Thanks,

Nicole

_________________
Nicole S. Cormen
Councilor-at-Large
City of Lebanon
Lebanon, New Hampshire