Summer in Whitehall and Montague means more foot traffic, bicyclists, tourists, and community events. Whether you’re walking along the water, visiting local shops, or cruising through town, it’s important to understand and respect crosswalk rules—and to practice good seasonal etiquette.
Both cities follow the Michigan Vehicle Code and Uniform Traffic Code, which define the responsibilities of drivers and pedestrians. Here’s what you need to know to stay safe and respectful this summer:
Crosswalk Rules for Pedestrians
- Use crosswalks and sidewalks whenever possible. Crossing mid-block without one increases your risk.
- Obey pedestrian signals and only cross when it’s your turn.
- Make eye contact with drivers before stepping into the road—don’t assume they see you.
- Avoid distractions like phones or headphones while crossing.
Crosswalk Rules for Drivers
- Yield to pedestrians in both marked and unmarked crosswalks on your side of the road.
- You are not required to stop unless needed to avoid a collision—but you must slow down and yield.
- Never pass a stopped vehicle at a crosswalk—someone may be crossing in front of them.
- Be especially alert when turning at intersections or entering busy areas downtown.
Local Enforcement
Both Whitehall and Montague enforce Michigan’s statewide traffic laws. Local authorities emphasize:
- Prioritizing pedestrian safety
- Slower speeds downtown and near the waterfront
- Extra caution in shared spaces like events, festivals, parades, and farmers markets
Summer Etiquette Tips
With more people enjoying the outdoors, here are a few etiquette reminders to help make the season safer and more enjoyable for everyone:
For Drivers:
- Slow down in high-traffic pedestrian areas like Colby Street, Water Street, and near marinas.
- Be patient with families, seniors, and out-of-town visitors who may not be familiar with the area.
- Avoid honking unless absolutely necessary.
- Watch for bikes, scooters, and children near trails and beach zones.
For Pedestrians:
- Don’t block sidewalks—leave space for others, especially in groups or with strollers.
- Use marked crosswalks whenever possible—even if it means a short detour.
- Be courteous to drivers—cross promptly and don’t linger.
- Clean up after pets and use public bins to keep walkways clean.
For Everyone:
- Yield to emergency vehicles, temporary detours, and barricades.
- Respect noise levels in residential areas during evening hours.
- Help keep Whitehall and Montague walkable, welcoming, and safe for all.
New Flashing Crosswalk Beacons in Montague
Montague recently completed a major downtown safety upgrade through a $500,000 Complete Streets grant, which includes:
- Rapid Rectangular Flashing Beacons (RRFBs) at key downtown intersections.
- Raised crosswalks and ADA-compliant ramps for improved visibility and accessibility
- Vegetated traffic refuges and narrowed lanes to calm vehicle speed
These improvements actively alert drivers to pedestrian presence—especially important during peak summer activity.
Using the New RRFBs: What to Know
Pedestrian Tips:
- Push the button to activate the amber flashing beacons before crossing.
- Cross promptly—don’t linger in the roadway once the lights activate.
- Stay alert and confirm drivers are slowing before stepping into the crosswalk.
Driver Tips:
- Watch for the flashing beacons and stop immediately when activated.
- Yield to pedestrians in the crosswalk until they’ve completely crossed.
- Remain stopped even if you don’t initially see a pedestrian—RRFBs are a legal yield signal.
Final Thought
Crosswalk safety and summer etiquette are shared responsibilities. Whether you’re behind the wheel or on foot, a little awareness goes a long way in keeping Whitehall and Montague safe, walkable, and welcoming.
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