The Town of Ramapo Police Department conducted a pedestrian safety enforcement and education detail on Friday in the area of West Central Avenue and Adar Court, aiming to improve safety for both pedestrians and drivers.
According to Ramapo Police, Traffic Safety Unit (TSU) officers were deployed to the busy corridor, where they not only enforced traffic violations but also actively engaged with residents to promote safer habits when walking near roadways.
During the detail, officers emphasized several key safety practices for pedestrians, including always using sidewalks where available, or walking facing traffic when sidewalks are not present. Residents were urged to remain alert and avoid distractions such as cell phones or headphones while crossing streets, as well as to never assume a driver will stop—encouraging eye contact with motorists before stepping into the roadway.
Police also highlighted the importance of crossing only at marked crosswalks or intersections whenever possible, obeying WALK/DON’T WALK signals, and carefully scanning all lanes of traffic before crossing. Officers warned that even if one vehicle stops, others may not, making it critical to ensure every lane is clear.
With visibility being a major factor in pedestrian safety, especially at night or during poor weather, the department encouraged wearing reflective clothing or accessories, carrying a flashlight, and crossing in well-lit areas. Residents were also reminded to stay sober and aware, as impairment significantly increases the risk of being struck.
In addition to educating pedestrians, officers issued enforcement actions for traffic violations observed in the area, reinforcing the department’s commitment to protecting public safety on local roadways.
Ramapo Police say they will continue conducting similar details throughout the town to raise awareness and reduce pedestrian-related incidents.
Stop signs, speed limits and [million dollar] sidewalks are barley more than suggestions in this area. Couple that with out of control cell phone use while driving, unattended children and near impossible to see pedestrians, disaster is an understatement.
It is also incredibly selfish to completely ignore the safety of others and to put people in the position of becoming an unwitting participant in a crash. Do better people.