February named Pedestrian Safety Awareness Month

The Kaua‘i Police Department Patrol Services Bureau has designated February as Pedestrian Safety Awareness Month.

In January, a pedestrian was killed after being struck by a car while crossing Kaumuali‘i Highway in Kalaheo.

Last November, a hit-and-run killed a pedestrian walking along the side of Koloa Road in Lawa‘i.

“We’re hoping that by focusing on pedestrian safety, motorists and pedestrians will be reminded that safety on our roadways is a shared responsibility,” Capt. Ale Quibilan said.

Throughout the month, patrol officers will be monitoring vehicular traffic at designated crosswalks for violations that place pedestrians at risk, and the actions of pedestrians will also be checked. Those who violate pedestrian safety laws will be issued citations.

The Kaua‘i County Code has two ordinances that address pedestrian’s rights and duties, one of which defines a blind and crippled pedestrian’s right-of-way and another that prohibits pedestrians from soliciting rides, employment or business from motorists.

In 2005, the pedestrians’ right-of-way in crosswalks was amended by the state Legislature. The law now says that the driver of a vehicle shall stop and yield the right-of-way to pedestrian crossing the roadway within a crosswalk.

The law also states that pedestrians should not suddenly leave a curb and walk or run into the path of a closely approaching vehicle.

Fines for drivers who violate the pedestrian’s right-of-way in crosswalk law range from $150 for a first infraction to $1,000 for repeat offenders, plus revocation of the person’s driver’s for 180 days.

Jaywalking is also prohibited in Hawai‘i and carries a $100 fine.

“Safety lies at the core of all laws, and pedestrian laws are designed to keep pedestrians safe,” Quibilan said.

To learn more about Hawai‘i’s pedestrian laws, visit http://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/hrscurrent/Vol05_Ch0261-0319/