CORONA DEL MAR TODAY

Apology and Request

Dear man in the Orchid crosswalk at 7:15 this morning,

I am sorry I didn’t stop for you. I always stop for pedestrians in the crosswalk, and I know you were annoyed.

However, it was very difficult to see you until I was in the crosswalk itself. It was still a bit dark, and raining. When I saw you, had I stepped hard on my brakes, I worried about hydroplaning. In that split second, I had to weigh whether it was safer for me to go through the crosswalk, or to risk stopping fast and sliding into you if I lost control.

Here’s the thing — there is a pedestrian button there that lights up the crosswalk. You didn’t use it. When visibility is low, those flashing lights really help motorists know you are there. I was not speeding, didn’t see any flashing lights, and you in your dull clothes were very vulnerable.

I’ll be more careful, I promise. But pedestrians need to be more careful too. On dark, rainy mornings, look out for cars. Use the pedestrian button.

Thanks,

Amy