No driver wants to hit a pedestrian, just as no pedestrian wants to be hit by a vehicle.

Trying to avoid such situations can sometimes be tricky, especially with confusing traffic signals.In most municipalities, the bulk of traffic signals have buttons for pedestrians to push when they want to cross the street.However, the majority of these signals do not stop traffic in all directions, leading to some confusion for motorists and pedestrians alike.When the signal indicates it's safe to walk, but the opposing traffic has a green light, how can someone safely cross the street?"It comes down to common sense," offers Tamaqua Chief of Police Richard Weaver."Always look to see if a car is turning before stepping out into the crosswalk and drivers should be alert when they see someone standing at an intersection."Weaver and Cpl. Henry Woods put their heads together to come up with the most dangerous pedestrian areas in Tamaqua."With school back in session," says Woods, "there are a lot of students walking to school, and driving to school, so the intersections at Spruce and Center, as well as Broad and Lehigh, are potential trouble spots."Weaver's trouble spot is the first block of West Broad Street, where customers of a popular restaurant don't use the crosswalks.There are some things motorists and pedestrians can do to travel safely.When driving, be alert in residential neighborhoods and school zones. Be on the lookout for bikers, walkers or runners who may be distracted or may step into the street unexpectedly.When traveling by foot or bike, use sidewalks or paths and cross at street corners, using traffic signals and crosswalks.Always look left, right and left again before crossing the street. Don't attempt to judge the speed and distance of an approaching vehicle. Watch for cars that are turning or backing up."If everyone just used some common sense, everyone can arrive alive," Weaver says.