Pedestrian Safety: Make Room For A New Law
Pedestrians, by law, now have more room to run and walk when on the road. A new law protecting pedestrian safety states that drivers must leave at least three feet of clearance between their vehicle and a pedestrian when passing. The decree is a continuation of a similar law for passing bicyclists.
The new law went into effect on September 12th and is being considered by many as an awareness act. Known as “An Act To Improve the Health of Maine Citizens and Safety of Pedestrians," drivers must now be more cautious of their actions around pedestrians or they will be fined.
Runners and walkers are required by Maine law to use a sidewalk when available. When one is not, they must travel facing traffic in the road’s shoulder. Bicyclists, however, must ride on the street with the flow of traffic. A driver may pass a pedestrian in a no-passing zone only when it’s safe to do so.
At the Law Offices of Joe Bornstein we see firsthand the results of pedestrian and bicycle accidents. The results are disheartening as a pedestrian is no match for a moving vehicle. So the next time you’re on the road and see a pedestrian or bicyclist enjoying the fresh Maine air, give them some room to breathe, because now it’s the law.
For more information on the new law protecting the safety of pedestrians please visit: http://www.mainelegislature.org/legis/statutes/29-A/title29-Asec2056.html.
