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Results of Street Smart Pedestrian Enforcement

For Immediate Release: Wednesday, May 24, 2017

As part of Montgomery County's participation in the regional Street Smart pedestrian and bicycle safety campaign, Montgomery County Police (MCPD) held three simultaneous pedestrian enforcements focusing on drivers’ responsibility to obey traffic laws regarding pedestrians using marked crosswalks.


The enforcements took place between the hours of 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. at:

  • Route 355 (Wisconsin Avenue) and Chase Avenue in Bethesda 

  • Route 355 (Frederick Road) at Gunners Branch Road in Germantown

  • Route 28 (Veirs Mill Road) and Dodge Street in Rockville

And the results…

A total of 76 citations and 17 warnings were issued

  • 52 citations in Bethesda (most citations, worst compliance to crosswalk pedestrian laws)

  • 5 citations in Germantown (least citations, best compliance to pedestrian laws)

  • 19 citations in Rockville

The Deputy Director of the MCPD Traffic Division was pleased with the good compliance of drivers at the Germantown intersection but stated, “We couldn’t write citations fast enough at our Bethesda location.”


Drivers and pedestrians are reminded of their shared responsibility for pedestrian safety. Please note the following important safety tips:

       For Drivers…

  • Stop for pedestrians at crosswalks and intersections-it's the law.

  • Don't block crosswalks when stopping at intersections.

  • Slow down and obey the posted speed limit.

  • Take extra care around schools, playgrounds, and neighborhoods.

  • Always look out for pedestrians, especially before turning at a green light or making a "right turn on red."

  • Obey speed limits, signs, signals and markings--and never run red lights.

  • Be careful when passing stopped vehicles. They might be stopping for pedestrians.

  • Share the road. It's your responsibility to look out for others.

    For Pedestrians…

  • Cross the street at marked crosswalks whenever possible.

  • Stop and look every time before crossing streets, even when you have the right-of-way, and especially at intersections with "right turn on red."

  • Before crossing, look left, right, then left again, and over your shoulder for turning vehicles.

  • Begin crossing the street on "Walk" signals-never on a solid or flashing "Don't Walk."

  • Use pedestrian pushbuttons to activate/extend the walk signal.

  • Use sidewalks. If none, walk facing traffic so you see vehicles, and drivers see you.

  • Make eye contact with drivers so they see you. Never assume they do.

  • Stay visible after dark and in bad weather with reflectors or reflective clothing.

    # # #

Release ID: 17-439
Media Contact: Lucille Baur 240-777-6507