Is it common sense not to run after a bus that’s left you behind? Most definitely. But that’s not to say pedestrians aren’t in need of the occasional reminder.
In response to a fatal accident in the District last week in which a man slipped and fell under the wheel of a moving Metrobus, the transit system has agreed to develop a message sign — something to the effect of “Stay Safe, Don’t Chase” — and corresponding icon warning riders against chasing a bus or train.
Another vehicle, Metro officials say, is never too far behind.
“People today are in a harried lifestyle, they’re preoccupied or distracted,” said Fred Goodine, Metro’s safety chief. “They don’t do it on purpose. You need to educate both the motorists, including our operators, and also the pedestrians.”
The message, whichGoodine said can be designed and printed in a couple months, was the product of a Monday brainstorming session involving Goodine and Terry Lynch, executive director of the Downtown Cluster of Congregations, a local human services advocacy organization.
“Their awareness of the pedestrian issue is very gratifying, and it makes so much sense both for the rail and buses,” Lynch said of Metro. “It’s a no-brainer, but in this day and age of iPods, rushed schedules and over-commitment, that’s what people do. And that’s why we’ve got to do outreach and education.”
