To the Readers' Forum:
I read in a recent Sunday of The Post-Journal about the approval for the crosswalk on Washington Street. I am very glad to see that it was approved. As I was reading about the NYS Vehicle and Traffic Law article 27, section 1151 that was referred to in the article, I find it hard to believe that the kids fully understand this. I have many times throughout the years driven by Persell Middle School and Jamestown High School and had student of varying ages walk right out in front of both my vehicle and other vehicles in front of me. the kids had smirks on their faces as I have rolled my window down to say, ''What in the world are you thinking?'' I have contacted the schools because of these close calls that have scared me to death, but have not fazed the kids one bit! Both incidents were not at a designated crosswalk, although they were in front of the schools.
I would love for the schools and parents in the area to teach the kids what it means to cross the roads at the crosswalks. Teach them safety, responsiblity and respect of others and themselves. Don't just walk out in front of vehicles regardless of where you're at. Don't assume the drivers see you! And on the flip side, ask drivers to slow down while driving especially in the school zones and adhere to the crosswalk laws.
We as drivers have to respect the pedestrians and pedestrians should also have that same respect for drivers.
Patty Warner
Falconer