Pedestrian Accidents cause for further Education on Public Safety

North Plainfield Police Department

Chief William G. Parenti

October 25, 2006

Mayor Janice G. Allen is feeling very uneasy because there were four motor vehicle versus pedestrian crashes in North Plainfield so far this year. She has asked Chief William Parenti to do a cause analysis on each crash to determine if there are preventative measures the Borough can embark upon,

In an effort to reduce or prevent the likelihood of this trend continuing Mayor Allen pledged that the governing body will assist in whatever capacity necessary. “While I am proud of our efforts in curtailing crime, we also must do all we can to help protect our citizens from the hazards of motor vehicle crashes and in particular pedestrian safety,” the Mayor said.

The North Plainfield Police Department is committed to the safety of all members of the community. They have the highest population density in Somerset County with over 7,000 people per square mile.

After reviewing the crashes Chief William G. Parenti said in each of four incidents the pedestrian or pedacyclist darted out into the street. In his report to Mayor Allen he said patrol officers will keep a watchful eye on pedestrian and bicycle operators behavior and take corrective procedures whenever appropriate.

Chief Parenti said some people are under the misconception that pedestrians have the “right-of-way” at intersections. New Jersey law states that motorists must yield to pedestrians within a crosswalk. A person is considered in a crosswalk if they began crossing when motor vehicles were at a safe distance away. The law does not permit a pedestrian to suddenly leave a curb or other place of safety and walk or run into the path of a vehicle.

Currently there is legislation sponsored by Assemblywoman Linda Stender to change the law. This bill would require motorists to stop for pedestrians within or waiting to enter crosswalks. The bill also contains a warning that pedestrians may not suddenly leave a curb or other place of safety and walk or run into the path of a vehicle that is so close that it is impossible for the driver to stop. Chief Parenti said, “When there is a collision between a motor vehicle and a pedestrian, because of the potential for injury, the pedestrian is usually the loser regardless of who is right or wrong.”

Mayor Allen said “Working in concert with the Police Department, the media and community we can educate the community to adapt lifelong safety habits that promote a safe and secure environment.” The Police Department is also seeking the support of parents in making pedestrian safety a Borough wide priority.



North Plainfield Police Department Chief William G. Parenti October 25, 2006 Mayor Janice G. Allen is feeling very uneasy because there were four motor vehicle versus pedestrian crashes in North Plainfield so far this year. She has asked Chief William Parenti to do a cause analysis on each crash to determine if there are preventative measures the Borough can embark upon, In an effort to reduce or prevent the likelihood of this trend continuing Mayor Allen pledged that the governing body will assist in whatever capacity necessary. “While I am proud of our efforts in curtailing crime, we also must do all we can to help protect our citizens from the hazards of motor vehicle crashes and in particular pedestrian safety,” the Mayor said. The North Plainfield Police Department is committed to the safety of all members of the community. They have the highest population density in Somerset County with over 7,000 people per square mile. After reviewing the crashes Chief William G. Parenti said in each of four incidents the pedestrian or pedacyclist darted out into the street. In his report to Mayor Allen he said patrol officers will keep a watchful eye on pedestrian and bicycle operators behavior and take corrective procedures whenever appropriate. Chief Parenti said some people are under the misconception that pedestrians have the “right-of-way” at intersections. New Jersey law states that motorists must yield to pedestrians within a crosswalk. A person is considered in a crosswalk if they began crossing when motor vehicles were at a safe distance away. The law does not permit a pedestrian to suddenly leave a curb or other place of safety and walk or run into the path of a vehicle. Currently there is legislation sponsored by Assemblywoman Linda Stender to change the law. This bill would require motorists to stop for pedestrians within or waiting to enter crosswalks. The bill also contains a warning that pedestrians may not suddenly leave a curb or other place of safety and walk or run into the path of a vehicle that is so close that it is impossible for the driver to stop. Chief Parenti said, “When there is a collision between a motor vehicle and a pedestrian, because of the potential for injury, the pedestrian is usually the loser regardless of who is right or wrong.” Mayor Allen said “Working in concert with the Police Department, the media and community we can educate the community to adapt lifelong safety habits that promote a safe and secure environment.” The Police Department is also seeking the support of parents in making pedestrian safety a Borough wide priority.