Pedestrian Safety Tips
Being a pedestrian is a healthy and often faster way to get around busy cities. So, we have put together a few pedestrian safety tips you can help reduce your chances of being involved in an accident.
- Obey Traffic Laws. Drivers don’t know what you’re going to do, but they will probably expect you to follow traffic laws and signals. Following instructions at crosswalks and traffic lights will help you avoid being in a collision.
- Use Sidewalks. When pedestrians have designated walking areas, use them and don’t walk in the street. If there are sections where you’re walking without a sidewalk, get as far to the side of traffic as possible, and walking facing traffic. Try to stay in well-lit areas if you’re walking at night.
- Avoid Distractions. People often walk while they’re looking at their phone. Whether they’re texting, using social media, or even using it as a navigation tool—these uses still distract pedestrians from paying attention to their surroundings. They may walk into a car that’s backing up or accidentally walk into the road. It’s important to pay attention to where you’re going.
- Don’t Think All Drivers See You. Pedestrians may also think that because they can see drivers, then the drivers can see them. This isn’t always the case. Cars may have certain blind spots or the driver may not be paying attention. It’s possible for the driver to make irresponsible decisions like distracted driving. They could be more focused on their phone than what’s in front of them and either veer off the road or not hit the brakes in time.
- Pay Attention at Driveways and Parking Lots. Drivers backing out of driveways may not look for or see pedestrians, so it’s important to be cautious in these areas. Parking lots are often busy and contain drivers looking for spots, cars exiting spots, and people walking. You should walk cautiously and never think that a driver sees you.
- Stay Alert. Even if you think you’re walking in an area where the possibility of an accident is low, still avoid distractions and keep an eye out so you can move to safety in case anything happens.
- Cross at Typical Places. If you see that you’re across the street from your destination, don’t run out into traffic to get there immediately. It’s much safer to cross where drivers expect you to be. Intersections and crosswalks are the safest places for crossing. If you’re in a situation where these aren’t available, wait for a gap in traffic when you can cross the street safely and quickly. Stepping into the street in front of a car that’s too close may not give the drive enough time to hit the brakes or the car may need more time to come to a full stop.
- Walk in Well-Lit Areas. When walking at night, stay in well-lit areas so drivers have the best chance of seeing you. Their visibility is limited to what their car lights show in front of them and people can often blend in when it’s dark out.
- Stay Visible. Walking at night can be dangerous, but you can wear bright, reflective clothing to help drivers see you more easily.
When you follow these tips, you’re being a safer pedestrian. You can have better peace of mind that you’re doing what you can to avoid an accident.
Get Sound Legal Advice from Wishart Brain & Spine Law
Negligent drivers that cause serious injuries should be held responsible for their actions. Our Lawyers are here to help you get the compensation you need. Insurance companies may try to give you less than what you’re owed, which could prevent you from paying off medical debt or affect how you afford future medical care. We will fight so you get a fair settlement. If you have any questions or want to schedule a free consultation, get in touch with us today.
