Cheswick the Crab at helm of campaign for safe travel

By Stewart Dobson Editor

(May 19, 2023) Cheswick the Crab let others do the talking at a Boardwalk news conference last Thursday, when agencies of the Maryland Department of Transportation and the

Town of Ocean City launched their expanded version of the annual “Walk Smart” pedestrian safety campaign. The official mascot of the decadeold program stood to the side as state and local officials, including resort

WALK SMART, DRIVE SMART, BIKE SMART

Walk Smart, Drive Smart, Bike Smart incorporates commonsense advice for all who use Coastal Highway and the resort’s other streets and avenues. More safety resources also can be found at ocwalksmart.com.

Walk Smart tips:

• Press the crosswalk button before crossing Coastal Highway.

• Cross at and within marked crosswalks.

• Look, pay attention, then cross.

• Follow all traffic signal signs and lane markings.

• Make eye contact with drivers.

Drive Smart tips:

• Drive sober.

• Stop for pedestrians in crosswalks. It’s the law in Maryland.

• Slow down. Watch for and yield for pedestrians, especially when turning.

• Keep your eyes on the road.

• Avoid all distractions. It’s illegal to text and use hand-held devices while driving.

• Share the road with bicyclists and give 3 feet of space when passing.

• Check your rearview and/or side mirrors for bikes in the bike lane before turning right.

• Avoid driving in bus lanes.

Bike Smart tips:

• Stop at all red lights and stop signs.

• Ride in the direction of traffic flow.

• Do not ride on the sidewalk. It’s illegal and dangerous.

• Ride sober. Never ride a bicycle while impaired by alcohol or drugs.

• Avoid distractions and pay attention.

• Use bike lights if riding after dark.