Foot blitz

By Lia Bichel
POLICE are urging pedestrians to take care when they cross the roads, after seven people have died on Victorian roads this month.
In five of the six recent collisions, police believe the pedestrian was at fault.
There have been 34 pedestrian fatalities this year, resulting in a 26 per cent increase from last year.
Following the death of an 81-year-old pedestrian in Cranbourne in May, Casey Highway Patrol Sergeant Pat McGavigan warned pedestrians to obey the road rules or face consequences.
“Wait for the green light at the crossings and use the crossings, they’re put there for the safety of everyone,” he said.
“Unfortunately, when pedestrians are involved in accidents with vehicles, they’ll lose every time.”
With the majority of pedestrian collisions in 50km and 60km zones during daylight hours, Road Policing Superintendent Neville Taylor said a simple decision could be the difference between life and death.
“Too often, we see people disobeying pedestrian signals, or getting distracted by mobile phones and MP3 players when crossing the road,” he said.
“The price for this behaviour is far too high, and I ask that people please recognise the risks involved as a pedestrian and take responsibility around roads.
“Such a simple decision as walking against pedestrian signals, or off designated pedestrian crossings, could cost you your life.”
Supt Taylor also urged drivers to slow down in busy built-up areas including shopping strips, school zones and the like and take extra care.
“We all need to take action on this, if we are going to turn this trend around.”
Police regularly run targeted operations that focus directly on pedestrian behaviour, in a bid to educate vulnerable road users and reduce serious collisions and fatalities.
Supt Taylor said the fine for J-Walking was $60.
“When you think of the impact an injury collision would have on your life, $60 is a small price to pay,” he said.