Editorial: Pedestrian deaths need examination

Tuesday, May 13, 2003 | 9:10 a.m.

Last year in Nevada 21 pedestrians were killed, ranking the state the seventh deadliest in that category. That is why it is encouraging that a team of researchers from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas is looking at new methods to make streets safer for pedestrians. The researchers will use remote cameras at dangerous intersections to help give them a better insight into what is behind the accidents and what can be done about it.

Some of the safety improvements under consideration: countdown clocks to let pedestrians know just how long they have to get through an intersection and flashing signals at crosswalks that pedestrians, by pushing a button, can activate to alert motorists that they want to cross the street. No technological improvement, however, can match the use of courtesy and common sense by motorists and pedestrians when they approach intersections or crosswalks -- and that doesn't cost a dime.

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