The Hickory Police Department is hitting the streets with an emphasis on improving traffic safety this July. According to an announcement on the City of Hickory's website, the P.A.C.T. initiative – Pay Attention in City Traffic – aims its focus on a stretch of 5th Street NE, from 26th Avenue NE to 10th Avenue Drive NE.
During this enforcement blitz, red-light running, speeding, the epitome of distracted driving, and other on-road violations are on the department's radar. Despite the increased attention, motorists are encouraged to remain vigilant in spotting pedestrians, keeping an eye out not just on crosswalks but at every intersection. Turning without looking for pedestrians should be cast aside during this time of heightened alertness.
For those traveling by foot, the effort to cross safely hasn't fallen on deaf ears. The city urges pedestrians to use marked crosswalks, obey signals, and don reflective materials in the darkness of night to ensure their visibility to fellow road users.
Cyclists, who share the roads no differently than cars and trucks, are also reminded to obey traffic laws. Staying respectful of cyclists, all motorists must understand that bicycles are considered vehicles, and as such, they must travel in the same direction as traffic, respecting lights and stops. In this dance of multi-modal transportation, each participant must move in harmony with the rules that govern them.
The Hickory Police Department extends its gratitude to residents who join in this community-wide effort to "help keep our city safe," heralding a partnership between law enforcement and citizenry in the pursuit of a safer Hickory.
