Plea to pedestrians to cross road safely

Age Concern Otago executive officer Susan Davidson uses a pedestrian crossing in Dunedin...
Age Concern Otago executive officer Susan Davidson uses a pedestrian crossing in Dunedin yesterday. Photo by Stephen Jaquiery.
The ''cavalier attitude'' of Dunedin pedestrians is worrying and controlled crossings should be used more, Age Concern Otago executive officer Susan Davidson says.

Ms Davidson said the behaviour of Dunedin pedestrians was ''not good''.

''For older people who may not have as good sight, hearing or mobility, I would encourage them to use pedestrian crossings.''

Dunedin road policing manager Senior Sergeant Phil McDouall said two elderly pedestrians had died this year from injuries sustained on a Dunedin road. Every road user needed to ensure their path was clear.

''Whether you're in a vehicle, on a bike, or on foot, you need to be aware of your surroundings and make sure the road is clear before you cross it, or if you're driving on it, that you can drive safely on it.''

A 78-year-old woman remained in a serious but stable condition in the intensive care unit at Dunedin Hospital yesterday after being hit by a ute in St Andrew St, between George and Filleul Sts, about 1pm on Sunday, Snr Sgt McDouall said.

On Saturday, William Mitchell (92) died from injuries after being hit by a green Mitsubishi Lancer while walking across Wickliffe St, Mosgiel, about 4.30pm on October 16.

The Mitsubishi's driver was aged 87.

In June, Joyce Pullar (92) died after being knocked over by a van in Moray Pl, Dunedin.

Sergeant Steve Aitken, of Dunedin, said Mosgiel police wanted to speak to anyone who witnessed the Wickliffe St incident and Dunedin police wanted to talk to anyone who saw the St Andrew St incident.

Snr Sgt McDouall said the three pedestrians were not using controlled crossings when they were hit.

A pedestrian must use a controlled crossing, if one was available within 30m, he said.

''If there is not one available, they can cross wherever they want to, but for their own safety they have to ensure the road is clear if they do cross,'' Snr Sgt McDouall said.

shawn.mcavinue@odt.co.nz

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