Readers Write: HATZOLOH PLEADS: WALK ON THE LEFT SIDE, FACING TRAFFIC!

By Rabbi Yosef C. Golding

I have been driving in Rockland County for the past 25 years, and I am astounded as to how many times I’ve encountered pedestrians walking on the right side of the road (which is the WRONG side) with their backs to oncoming traffic.

Once, while driving on Brick Church Road (which can be quite winding at spots), I met up with three teenagers, walking side-by-side, with their backs to me. I pulled over to try and explain to them how dangerous their actions were…and all I got were dirty stares. And this was during the day; by nighttime, the danger is increased manifold.

At night, anyone who walks on any side of the road without a reflector, or other forms of lighting, is putting his or her life in danger. Much of the clothing worn by our community is on the dark side, and this multiplies the danger.

Here are several points gleaned from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration:

• Increase your visibility when walking at night by carrying a flashlight and wearing reflective clothing, such as reflective [belts, straps, or] vests.
• Cross streets at a designated crosswalk or intersection whenever possible.
• Walk on a sidewalk or path instead of the road. Walk on the shoulder and facing traffic if a sidewalk or path is not available.

Reflectors are available at our offices at 19 Grove Street, compliments of the Town of Ramapo.

REMEMBER!: Walk on the LEFT side of the road, FACING oncoming traffic…and at night, ALWAYS with a reflector.

www.RHVAC.org