In 2016 the amount of pedestrian fatalities in New Jersey alone was 474 and counting.

The law states that all cars must stop for pedestrians when there is a crosswalk present. Thousands of pedestrians a year get killed because cars do not stop while they are passing. This is a problem all around the country, in various towns and states, including Hawthorne.

Hawthorne is a relatively small town, and community. Teenagers, adults, and children all walk as a way of transportation. People in the community should be able to walk around the town, not worrying about if cars are going to stop for them or not.

Goffle Road is one of the busiest roads in Hawthorne, and many kids have to cross that road to get home after school. Recently, they’ve had to put a crossing guard at the intersection of Bamford and Warburton Avenue, because cars aren’t stopping for the kids crossing the road. A crossing guard was a resourceful idea, until we come to the realization that there shouldn’t have to be one there.

Another spot in Hawthorne is on the intersection of Diamond Bridge and Grand Ave. There is a sign that was placed in front of Bagel Express that reads ‘stop for pedestrians, $230 fine, 2 points.’ This is polluting our streets and the safety of our community.

This atrocity is all over town putting people’s lives in danger. Following the law is common courtesy and a drivers responsibility.