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NEWBERRY — Halloween is fast approaching and drivers should expect more pedestrians walking in or around the roadway. Children, as well as parents, should be aware of the dangers associated with walking close to the roadway. South Carolina Law (section 56-5-3160, pedestrians on highways) requires:

• Where a sidewalk is provided and its use is practicable, it shall be unlawful for any pedestrian to walk along and upon an adjacent roadway.

• Where a sidewalk is not available any pedestrian walking along and upon a highway shall walk only on a shoulder as far as practicable from the edge of the roadway.

• Where neither a sidewalk nor a shoulder is available, any pedestrian walking along and upon a highway shall walk as near as practicable to an outside edge of the roadway and, if on a two-way roadway, shall walk only on the left side of the roadway.

• Except as otherwise provided in this chapter, any pedestrian upon a roadway shall yield the right-of-way to all vehicles upon the roadway.

As pedestrians we should walk facing traffic and be prepared to take evasive action if a vehicle approaches in your direction.

Pedestrians should wear some type of reflective material or light colored clothing so drivers can identify those walking close to the road. We should try to put on wrist or ankle bands that are reflective that can show movement. Drivers can see the movement and identify it as possibly being a pedestrian.

Parents or guardians should monitor the event closely. Adults should be prepared to help children cross roads in their neighborhood constantly looking for traffic. Pedestrians should use crosswalks when available or cross at intersections that are lit with street lights. Drivers should prepare themselves for conditions at night as well:

Scanning the road ahead

Preparing to stop for pedestrians crossing the road

Lower their speed

Keep their attention on driving and don’t be distracted

When vehicles and pedestrians are close to each other, don’t assume they see each other and proceed with caution. Drivers and pedestrians should try to make eye contact.

For those planning to attend events Halloween night which may be serving alcohol, try to remember some things that will make this Halloween safe for everyone.

Have a designated driver

Arrange for a taxi

Call a friend to pick you up

Please remember the roads we are traveling on will possibly have those little ones out for Halloween. Please make safety your first choice, don’t leave this to chance. Remember your best defense in any collision is your seat belt. Buckle up; your life may depend on it.