Safety Tips
There are quite a few more cars on the road these past few weeks, just as the weather has turned the tide. And with the added number of vehicles and pedestrians, now--more than ever--we all need to heed basic rules of the road to stay safe. Just this afternoon I saw a man with a baby carriage running across US 158! Yikes. Unfortunately, this is not the first time I've seen someone try to cross the highway with a stroller or small child.
Keep the following in mind when driving or walking along the roads on the OBX:
--US 158 (The Bypass) is a real highway. It's not a good place to take bike rides or casual walks. There are few places along US 158 that have sidewalks, so you're better off strolling or biking side streets.
--That being said, inevitably you will see bikers or people walking along the highway. Keep your eyes open for them, especially at night.
--The center lane of the highway is for turning. Traffic from both directions use this lane for turning, so be aware of oncoming vehicles. I do not like to use the middle lane during the summer; instead I try to turn at traffic lights whenever possible.
--There is a lot of pedestrian traffic on the Beach Road during the summer. Not all of the Beach Road has sidewalks, so be mindful of those walking or biking.
--If you choose to walk or bike along the roads of the Outer Banks, please use caution. Turn off your cell phone and IPod so that you can be aware of cars. Many drivers during this time of year are unfamiliar with our roads and may not be paying attention.
--Only cross the highway at crosswalks (This means you, Mr. Baby-Carriage Runner!).
--Texting and driving is now illegal in North Carolina. Not only is it dangerous, but you can be ticketed.
--And, as always, please, please do not drink and drive! Cabs are cheap and plentiful on the Outer Banks, and your local bartender will be more than willing to call one for you.
Keep the following in mind when driving or walking along the roads on the OBX:
--US 158 (The Bypass) is a real highway. It's not a good place to take bike rides or casual walks. There are few places along US 158 that have sidewalks, so you're better off strolling or biking side streets.
--That being said, inevitably you will see bikers or people walking along the highway. Keep your eyes open for them, especially at night.
--The center lane of the highway is for turning. Traffic from both directions use this lane for turning, so be aware of oncoming vehicles. I do not like to use the middle lane during the summer; instead I try to turn at traffic lights whenever possible.
--There is a lot of pedestrian traffic on the Beach Road during the summer. Not all of the Beach Road has sidewalks, so be mindful of those walking or biking.
--If you choose to walk or bike along the roads of the Outer Banks, please use caution. Turn off your cell phone and IPod so that you can be aware of cars. Many drivers during this time of year are unfamiliar with our roads and may not be paying attention.
--Only cross the highway at crosswalks (This means you, Mr. Baby-Carriage Runner!).
--Texting and driving is now illegal in North Carolina. Not only is it dangerous, but you can be ticketed.
--And, as always, please, please do not drink and drive! Cabs are cheap and plentiful on the Outer Banks, and your local bartender will be more than willing to call one for you.
I saw "Mrs. Baby Carriage Runner" in her sarong and flip flops trying to cross the highway this weekend! Please folks,you must keep in mind that there are people walking and biking all over the Outer Banks. There are also drivers that are not paying as much attention as they should. Remember to stop at all cross walks on the Beach Road. Be Kind. Be Thoughtful. Be Mindful.
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