Look Out For Pedestrians in Chapel Hill

I recently returned from a 10 month stay in Britain and Europe, and for much of that time, walked to wherever I needed to go, visit, or explore.   Not only was it an excellent way to get to know the areas, but back home in Chapel Hill, my doctor was impressed at my physical condition.

Jane Salemson

Here, I am trying to continue to walk as much as possible, but recently had a near collision with a car.

This happened on the corner of Weaver Dairy Road and Martin Luther King Boulevard going north. There is a lot of traffic in that area, and I thought the safest way to cross the Boulevard was at the lights on the north side of the intersection. There are push buttons to light up the walking icon allowing pedestrians to cross. When the walking light lit up, I started to cross, but a car at great speed turned right from Weaver Dairy Road, into my lane.

Fortunately I saw the movement and jumped back.

Several other cars did the same thing, no-one even stopped before turning, which is illegal, totally ignoring the lit-up walking sign, and the fact I had the right of way. I know there are not many pedestrians in that area, but with new construction and more people moving in, there are going to be many more walkers.

It’s all set up for them to be able to cross safely, but drivers are ignoring the rule to stop at a red light, and to look out for pedestrians who are trying to cross. If they don’t follow the rules, there will be a terrible accident one day.

PS: I do drive, and experiencing the walking incident has made me more observant when doing so. I recommend all drivers walk across a busy intersection, to understand the dangers of careless driving.

— Jane Salemson.

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