Message from the Judge: Welcome Spring!

As the weather warms up and the flowers begin to bloom, we at Fulton County welcome the arrival of spring!

The spring season brings a sense of renewal and fresh beginnings, inspiring us to step outside and enjoy all the season offers. However, with the change in the weather also comes new challenges and responsibilities that we must keep in mind. Regardless of your plans this spring, always prioritize safety.

With warmer weather and longer daylight hours, many of us will spend more time outdoors. Whether walking, jogging, or biking, always be aware of your surroundings, follow traffic laws, and take the necessary precautions to protect yourself and those around you.

The National Highway and Safety Administration has the following tips on walking safely:

• Follow the rules of the road and obey signs and signals.
• Cross streets at crosswalks or intersections while looking for cars in all directions (including those turning left or right).
• If a crosswalk or intersection is not available, locate a well-lit area where you have the best view of traffic and wait for a gap in traffic that allows enough time to cross safely (continue watching for traffic as you cross).
• Walk on sidewalks when available.
• If there is no sidewalk, walk facing traffic while being as far from traffic as possible.
• Watch for cars entering or exiting driveways or backing up in parking lots.

When driving, it's important to be mindful of children playing near roadways in our community. Please slow down and take extra caution when driving through residential neighborhoods. When drivers maintain safe speeds and practice other safe driving behaviors, safer environments are created for our community.

The National Highway and Safety Administration has the following tips on driving safely for pedestrians:

• Always stay alert and watch for pedestrians everywhere.
• Follow the speed limit, especially around people on the street, in school zones, and in neighborhoods where children are present.
• Be extra cautious when driving in hard-to-see conditions (bad weather or nighttime) and backing up your vehicle.
• Be prepared to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks and stop your vehicle well back from the crosswalk.
• Never pass vehicles stopped at a crosswalk.
• Never drive under the influence.

For more information on walking and driving safely for pedestrians, please visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to contact us. Together, we can make this spring a season of growth, renewal, and safety for all.

Wishing you a spring season filled with joy, energy, and continued success!

Judge Kenneth G. Crow