Earlier Sunsets Prompt Reminder to Watch for Pedestrians

UNDATED -- The Minnesota Department of Public Safety is reminding drivers, pedestrians and bike riders to take extra care now that it gets dark earlier every day.

While we are on pace for a record-setting safe year for pedestrians, authorities are urging diligence.

Motorists need to be alert at every intersection whether there is a marked crosswalk or not and stop for pedestrians.

Pedestrians need to obey traffic signals, use crosswalks when possible and walk along the left side of the road.

Cyclists should wear helmets and reflective clothing and follow all traffic laws.

To date there have been 18 pedestrian deaths so far this year, down from 25 last year at this time. There have been three cyclist deaths compared to eight at this time in 2010.