There are many streets in Portland where the streetlights are dim, out, or non-existent - no matter how fancy the neighborhoods. I drive down Northwest streets regularly and am often startled by dark movement in blankness – often right in front of my vehicle.

Look: I am a Northwesterner and wear muted clothing like most of you. I, too, am a pedestrian as often as a driver. I had no idea how invisible people moving along normally can be until I switched shifts at the hospital this year. Please, please make yourself visible.

You can buy reflective tape at hardware stores for cheap: Just slap a couple inches on the sleeves of your coat, throw one on a piece of Velcro for a wristband, or tie a white handkerchief on your wrist –something! I had a near-miss with an elderly gentleman the other night who was carrying a hand-lamp. He may have been doing the best for his own sight, but not for mine. How was he to know I couldn't see it?

I see stories of car-meets-flesh in the news every day.

I respect pedestrians. I am one. Please don't stop walking. Please help me not hit you.

-- Shawna Lamb, Vancouver, Washington