Yesterday, Gov. Patrick Quinn signed HB 43 into law, making it a requirement for drivers in Illinois to stop, not just yield, to pedestrians at a crosswalk.
There are so many reasons why this legislation makes sense: We've written on this blog about how this legislation will help protect the lives of Illinois pedestrians. And we've explained the link between safe streets and economically vibrant communities. We applaud Gov. Quinn for signing this legislation and look forward to the day when Illinois' drivers have all shifted their habits to give pedestrians the right of way when crossing at crosswalks.
Speaking from my personal perspective, I intend to help educate the drivers I encounter each morning as I cross Irving Park Road at Greenview Avenue to catch the #80 CTA bus headed east to the Sheridan Red Line stop. My husband and I have found that by pointing at the crosswalk sign as we stand a safe distance outside the path of oncoming vehicles, at least one responsible driver stops, prompting others to stop and allowing us to cross the street safely.
