On Sunday, a Cal-State Fullerton student name Yao Loo was, in the words of CBS 2 a car "plowed into the girl, launched her 40 feet in the air, and took off." The LAPD is currently searching for the culprit who is said to drive a Black Lexus or Toyota SUV. CBS 2 doesn't allow other sites to stream their video, so you'll have to click here to see the story.
This time there are no complaints about the media's handling of the story, indeed there could be little confusion about what happened when the story discusses how graphically the driver slammed into the pedestrian, there can be little doubt that the driver wa snot driving safely through a heavily traveled pedestrian area.
As we all know, when a pedestrian is killed or harmed, the LAPD jumps into action...blaming the pedestrian. In response to this crash, the LAPD released a list of "suggestions" for pedestrians to follow to keep us safe while we walk the streets of Los Angeles. While there is something to be said for walking as safely as possible; is it asking too much for the powers that be to spend as much time promoting driver safety as pedestrian safety? Releasing this list as a response to a crash would be like the fire department releasing tips on safely using matches to those that lost their homes in a forest fire.
To read the completely condescending list, chock full of innovative suggestions such as "look both ways before crossing the street," read on after the jump or click here.
When crossing a street at an intersection, pedestrians should look
left, right, then left again before proceeding. When the roadway is
clear, begin crossing while looking over your shoulder for turning
vehicles; always check for traffic while crossing and yield to oncoming
traffic.
It
is imporant to pay attention and follow the direction of traffic
signals. Pedestrians need to wait until the "WALK" signal is showing,
and traffic is clear, before crossing. Do not begin crossing the street
when a flashing "DON'T WALK" or "WAIT" signal is showing.
When
emerging from a driveway or alley, motorists must stop prior to
proceeding onto the roadway and must yield the right-of-way to
pedestrians on the sidewalk. However, for your safety, approach all
driveways and alleys with caution and only cross when safe.
Motorists
will usually be looking away from the corner and toward oncoming
traffic as they attempt to turn and merge with traffic on the crossing
street. Pedestrians must always look for turning vehicles before
stepping off the curb. Make sure that any driver making a right or left
turn sees you. If you are uncertain, wait until the vehicle passes,
look again and then cross safely.
Crosswalks
and pedestrian signals are strategically placed throughout the City of
Los Angeles to faciliate the safe and orderly movement of vehicles and
pedestrian traffic. Always cross at intersections, preferably in marked
crosswalks. Do now jaywalk or cross from between parks vehicles.
Pedestrians
should stay a safe distance away from other vehicles, especially trucks
and buses. A driver of a truck or bus has several "blind spots" around
the vehicle where visibility is limited or obstructed. Pedestrians need
to be especially attentive when walking near these large vehicles. Be
alert and stay out of the "Blind Spots."
Remember,
having the "right-of-way" does not protect you from becoming seriously
injured or killed in a traffic collision. Always use caution when
crossing a roadway.
