Stop For The Feet!
Because our community has identified pedestrian crosswalk safety as a priority goal, we are joining a new statewide crosswalk safety campaign being launched this fall around the state. The campaign is designed to raise awareness of Minnesota's pedestrian safety law and to increase the number of drivers who stop for pedestrians at intersections. The law requires vehicles to stop and yield the right of way to pedestrians at all marked and unmarked crosswalks which are not controlled by a traffic signal.
In Chaska, a special emphasis program will include education and stepped up enforcement. Of particular concern, is the Chaska downtown district which is served by State Highway 41. Last year, the City installed oversized "Yield to Pedestrians in Crosswalk" signs at the five primary crosswalks. While this seemed to help a little, it is not nearly enough. Clearly additional efforts are needed. With a statewide campaign, Minnesota could finally join the ranks of other states like California where motorists actually do yield to pedestrians!
For more information visit the Minnesota Safety Council's webpage.