Safety is DOT’s number one priority, and we are constantly working on new ways to ensure that whatever mode of transportation you choose to use, it is as safe as possible.
Yesterday, I was pleased to join New York City Department of Transportation Commissioner Janette Sadik-Khan to unveil the New York City DOT’s new “LOOK” safety campaign. This innovative campaign uses street markings and display ads to remind drivers, bicyclists, and pedestrians to be alert and focused at all times, whether they are sitting behind the wheel, riding a bike, or traveling on foot.
“LOOK” pavement markings at crosswalks, with “eyes” drawn within the O’s, will alert pedestrians to oncoming traffic, and ads targeted to drivers and cyclists will feature the “LOOK” graphic on MTA buses’ rear advertising panels.
NYC DOT safety awareness campaigns have already helped reduce traffic fatalities in New York City by 40 percent since 2001. This campaign is another important step towards improved safety, and will help to further reduce injuries and save lives in one of our nation’s busiest cities.
Safety is a two-way street --and that requires motorists as well as all users of our roads to be aware of each other and keep their eyes wide open. Whether you choose to travel by car, bike, or foot, it’s important to share the roads and stay alert.
I’ve mentioned before that everyone must take personal responsibility for safety. Drivers need to put their phones down, stop speeding, and drive with care.
And pedestrians can protect themselves by using established crosswalks, turning the volume down on their headphones, keeping their eyes and mind on the traffic around them, and holding off on emailing or texting until after they’ve crossed the street.
Any traffic fatality or injury is one too many. We at DOT will continue to pursue road safety with good partners like the New York City DOT, and campaigns like “LOOK” will help us do just that.
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