With busy roads and pedestrians sharing the streets every day, State Senator Bill Weber has launched a new “Street Smart” safety initiative across Rockland, reminding drivers, pedestrians and cyclists about simple steps that can help prevent serious crashes.

As part of the initiative, Weber recently distributed a safety mailer to residents throughout the 38th Senate District. The “Street Smart: Simple Steps That Save Lives” guide focuses on everyday situations that can become dangerous, including crossing busy roads, driving through intersections and stopping near school buses.

The guide reminds pedestrians to use marked crosswalks when possible, follow pedestrian signals and look left, right and left again before crossing. Pedestrians are also encouraged to make eye contact with drivers rather than assuming a vehicle has seen them, stay off their phones while crossing and avoid crossing between parked cars.

Drivers are reminded to slow down near crosswalks and intersections, watch for children and seniors, and be especially careful when turning, backing up or pulling out of a driveway. Drivers should also never pass a vehicle that has stopped at a crosswalk, since someone may be crossing in front of it.

The campaign also includes reminders for nighttime and poor-weather conditions, including wearing reflective clothing and using extra caution during rain, snow, fog and at night.

School bus safety is another focus of the campaign. Drivers are reminded never to pass a school bus when its red or yellow lights are flashing and to watch carefully for children getting on or off buses and waiting at bus stops.