[Archived] Alexandria Police Participate in Regional Street Smart Campaign

For Immediate Release: November 9, 2018
 
As part of the Alexandria Police Department’s traffic safety program and commitment to Vision Zero, the Field Operations Bureau will again participate in the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments’ Fall Street Smart campaign. This region-wide public safety campaign, which runs through December 2, 2018, aims to educate drivers, pedestrians, and bicyclists about existing traffic laws and how to safely share our roadways. The ultimate goal is to reduce the number of traffic related crashes and injuries on our roadways by identifying and changing unsafe behavior patterns among travelers. November is associated with an increase in the number of pedestrians injured or killed during the evening commute, when the end of Daylight Saving Time means it grows dark an hour earlier.
 
As part of the Street Smart campaign, Alexandria officers will conduct high-visibility traffic education and enforcement at the following locations:
 
• November 28, 2018, from 7-9 a.m. and 3-5 p.m. on Potomac Avenue
• December 5, 2018,  from 7-9 a.m. and 3-5 p.m. on N. Beauregard Street, between Sanger Avenue and Seminary Road

Key safety tips for drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists include:
 
If you’re driving…
• Slow down, obey the speed limit, and be alert for people walking and biking.
• Stop for people in crosswalks.
• Never pass a vehicle stopped at a crosswalk.
• Yield to pedestrians and bicyclists when turning.
 
If you’re walking…
• Wear something bright or reflective when it’s dark outside.
• Use the crosswalk and wait for the walk signal.
• Watch for turning cars at intersections.
 
If you’re biking…
• Be predictable and obey signs and signals.
• Never ride against traffic.
• Use lights at night.
 
For more information about the City of Alexandria’s commitment to providing safe streets for all users and reducing fatalities and severe injuries on the roadways, visit alexandriava.gov/VisionZero.