The confluence of major road work, tourist season and ferry problems has made traveling on Whidbey more challenging than usual this summer.

With thousands of runners making their way down the island this weekend during the Ragnar Relay, drivers need to be as vigilant and cool-headed as possible. Expect to be delayed. Road rage and impatience behind the wheel doesn’t make the traffic go any faster, but such emotions can influence drivers to make poor decisions.

According to the Washington Traffic Safety Commission, pedestrian deaths accounted for 14 percent of all traffic fatalities in recent years. Of those fatalities, almost half — 46 percent — occurred at or were related to an intersection and more than half occurred in areas with posted speeds of 25-35 mph.

Runners will be starting the relay Friday morning in Blaine and are anticipated to start showing up on the north end of the island early Saturday morning as they make their way to the end of the relay in Langley.

Drivers should expect to see runners throughout the island all day Saturday. They will be on back roads as much as possible but will be crossing the highway at key points, like Libbey Road just north of Coupeville.

The most prevalent contributing factor among drivers in pedestrian fatalities is distraction, so keep your eyes on the road and an eye out for runners.

And your vigilance shouldn’t be kept solely to this weekend. As we’re in the thick of tourism season, events such as the Whidbey Island Fair, Coupeville Arts and Crafts Festival and Oak Harbor Pigfest will continue to draw more visitors — and pedestrians — into our streets.

Nice weather brings people further outdoors and organizations will be hosting events taking advantage of our pleasant summer season.

The Whidbey Camano Land Trust is holding a non-competitive bike ride throughout the Crockett Lake area Sunday, July 23. It will feature three scenic loop options. Additionally, Coupeville parents will be hosting the annual Race the Reserve Aug. 12.