RIO GRANDE – Middle Township Police Department responded to two separate pedestrian motor vehicle crashes on Route 47 in Rio Grande Dec. 17.
The first crash was reported at 5:48 p.m. Rachel Cinelli, 33, of Rio Grande, walked out into the travel lane and was struck by a vehicle, driven by Raymond Horton, 24, of Villas. Cinelli was transported to Atlantic Regional Medical Center for her injuries.
The second crash occurred at 11:15 p.m. Robert Medrow, 34, of Green Creek, was crossing Route 47 and was struck by a vehicle driven by Julio Hernandez, 65, of North Cape May. Medrow was transported to Cape Regional Medical Center for treatment of his injuries.
No charges have been filed and the crashes are still under investigation. In both cases it appears the pedestrians were at fault.
The Middle Township Police Department would like to offer tips for pedestrians and motorists:
Pedestrians:
- Always cross at corners, within marked crosswalks where available.
- If crossing in other locations, yield the right of way to vehicles. Failure to obey the law carries a $54 fine for J walking.
- Look left, right, and left again before crossing. Watch for turning cars.
- Always walk facing traffic.
- Obey traffic signal, especially “Walk/Don’t Walk signals.
- Remain Alert. Don’t assume that cars are going to stop.
- Wear Reflective clothing when walking in the dark
- Stay Sober! Walking while impaired greatly increases your chances of being struck.
Motorists:
- Stop for pedestrians in marked crosswalks. Failure to stop carries a $200 fine, a 2 point license penalty, 15 days community service, and insurance surcharges.
- Watch for pedestrians when turning right on red.
- Obey speed limits
- Do not block or park in crosswalks.
- Keep your windshield clear for maximum visibility.
- Be alert for pedestrians at all times.
