Public Safety, Rockville Reports, Transportation and Mobility

Less Daylight, More Caution: ‘It’s Up to Us’ to Keep Streets Safe

Less Daylight, More Caution: ‘It’s Up to Us’ to Keep Streets Safe

With daylight saving time ending Sunday, Nov. 1, and winter approaching, earlier sunsets are a reminder to use extra caution while driving, biking, walking and rolling on Rockville’s streets.

The city’s “It’s Up to Us …” campaign reminds everyone to pay attention, follow the rules of the road and look out for one another. As daylight hours grow shorter, these everyday actions support Rockville’s Vision Zero goal of eliminating traffic-related deaths and serious injuries by 2030.

Tips for Drivers:

• Slow down and watch for people walking, rolling and biking, especially in low-light conditions.
• Turn on headlights during early morning and evening hours.
• Keep headlights and windows clean, inside and out.
• Use low beams when other vehicles or pedestrians are nearby.
• Yield to pedestrians in crosswalks. Never pass a vehicle stopped at a crosswalk.
• Put away your phone and keep your attention on the road.

Tips for Walking and Rolling:

• Use sidewalks when available. If you must walk along a road without sidewalks, walk facing traffic and as far from vehicles as possible.
• Cross at intersections. Avoid crossing between parked cars.
• Look left, right and left again before crossing, and cross only when it is clear. Continue watching for turning vehicles.
• Evaluate the distance and speed of approaching vehicles before entering the street.
• Avoid listening to music or keep the volume low enough to hear approaching vehicles.
• Wear reflective gear and carry a flashlight when traveling after dark.

Tips for Bicyclists:

• Use a white front light, a red rear light and reflectors at night or when visibility is poor.
• Ride in the same direction as traffic and obey traffic signs and signals.
• Wear a properly fitted helmet and reflective gear.

Whether you are behind the wheel or traveling on foot, with a mobility device or by bike, it’s up to us to help keep Rockville’s streets safe.

Learn more about the city’s Vision Zero efforts.