I lost a son in a traffic accident, so I know the pain Brian Reams’ parents feel. I am also a commuter that crosses the University camp down Agate Street every day. I don’t mean to say that Brian did it, but I notice that students hardly ever look around before crossing. I could hit at least one student a week if I failed to stop for any reason. Here are some recommendations:
Cross any street with the assumption that cars could pass even if you are in the no-car mall, so that you train your mind to always look for cars.
Don’t assume that the car will see you and stop. The driver could be distracted or drunk, and cars are a lot bigger than you.
Don’t use the cell phone or listen to music when crossing the campus. They distract you from paying attention to cars. You can stand a few minutes of boredom to save your life.
Before crossing, assume that the driver won’t stop, and be ready to sprint just in case it doesn’t stop. But the best way is for you to stop and wait until the car stops and lets you cross.
The same applies to cyclists; plus, watch for cars turning right at the intersection and cutting you off.
Ono Olivieri
Eugene resident