I read with interest two offerings in the Sunday, Oct. 11, Ideas section. One was an editorial about preventable pedestrian deaths (“Why do we tolerate so many preventable pedestrian deaths,” Editorial), and the other was about waving to strangers (“Waving to strangers, what a concept,” Letters).
As newcomers to the Boston area, who have lived in suburban and rural areas in New York, New Jersey, North Carolina, and Minnesota, my husband and I consistently note that Bostonians have been among the most welcoming individuals. They have provided us — strangers with hard-to-pinpoint accents — assistance in locating (albeit very expensive) housing or advice regarding everything from health care to entertainment.
The caveat is as long as the interaction occurs while not in a vehicle. As avid walkers, we have very nearly been involved in multiple accidents as we venture across crosswalks, lights in our favor, only to be sideswiped by drivers, cyclists, and people on scooters and skateboards who are traveling too fast or distracted by their phones. When we are driving and approach a green light, we have learned to slow down, because running red lights and blocking intersections appear to be a rite of passage. Any of the interventions mentioned by the editorial board to help protect pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers would be most appreciated.
Lisa Dorn
Watertown