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| Pedestrians crossing image from unsplash.com |
After decades of executive roles at leading financial services companies, Brent Baiotto launched the independent consulting firm Integrated Holistic Services (IHS). In addition to his consulting work, Brent Baiotto serves as the secretary of the Christian-based charitable organization Redeemer Community Partnership (RCP). The nonprofit supports community development projects that promote and serve the "underserved" community of South Central Los Angeles. One of those projects includes road safety for bicyclists and pedestrians.
Speeding and distracted driving are two of the biggest causes of pedestrians being hit by cars. Municipalities can implement several strategies to increase pedestrian safety. Creating wide, pedestrian-only zones such as sidewalk curbs or crossing stripes can prevent vehicles from getting too close to pedestrians.
Digital signs at crosswalks can also alert drivers that a pedestrian is crossing the road and encourage slower driving. Similar signs that display a driver’s speed in real-time are also effective in reducing speeding.
Adjusting traffic signals can also reduce pedestrian-involved collisions. For example, installing traffic signals for protected left turns enable vehicles to cross without competing with pedestrians. Likewise, lights can be configured to provide pedestrians with more time to cross before turning vehicles can move. Ultimately, what RCP is working to achieve is a safe and positive environment for the people within their community.
Speeding and distracted driving are two of the biggest causes of pedestrians being hit by cars. Municipalities can implement several strategies to increase pedestrian safety. Creating wide, pedestrian-only zones such as sidewalk curbs or crossing stripes can prevent vehicles from getting too close to pedestrians.
Digital signs at crosswalks can also alert drivers that a pedestrian is crossing the road and encourage slower driving. Similar signs that display a driver’s speed in real-time are also effective in reducing speeding.
Adjusting traffic signals can also reduce pedestrian-involved collisions. For example, installing traffic signals for protected left turns enable vehicles to cross without competing with pedestrians. Likewise, lights can be configured to provide pedestrians with more time to cross before turning vehicles can move. Ultimately, what RCP is working to achieve is a safe and positive environment for the people within their community.
