Pedestrian Safety Tips to Prevent Accidents – What Every Pedestrian Should Know

Pedestrian accidents are a common occurrence, especially in busy urban areas. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, in 2019, 6,205 pedestrians were killed in traffic crashes in the United States alone. Additionally, over 130,000 pedestrians were treated in emergency departments for non-fatal crash-related injuries.

With the increased number of vehicles on the road, pedestrian safety has become a grave concern for everyone. Pedestrian accidents occur every day, and some of them are fatal. A pedestrian’s safety is a responsibility of both drivers and pedestrians themselves. It is important for pedestrians to know the basic safety tips and follow them to prevent accidents. So, in this blog, we will discuss some of the essential pedestrian safety tips to follow, so that every pedestrian can feel safe on the road.

Use designated pedestrian crossings

Always use designated pedestrian crossings when crossing the road. Crosswalks, pedestrian bridges, and tunnels are there for a reason. They make crossing safer for you and for drivers. Look for painted crosswalks, pedestrian signage, and traffic signals to identify designated crossing areas. Make sure to follow traffic signals, even if there are no cars in sight. One of the most basic things pedestrians can do to stay safe is using sidewalks. Walking on the sidewalk, instead of the road, will help you avoid collision with a vehicle, and crossing the road using a crosswalk will help you ensure your safety as you’ll have the right-of-way. Never cross the road from anywhere else, and always avoid jaywalking.

Be aware of your surroundings

Being aware of your surroundings can help you avoid accidents. Always look both ways before crossing the road, even if you have the right of way. Stay off your phone or any other electronic devices while crossing. It’s essential to hear and see traffic, especially if cars are turning or cyclists are approaching. Avoid wearing headphones or anything that can obstruct your vision. If you’re distracted, you’re more prone to accidents. This is why it’s crucial to be mindful of your surroundings and keep your devices away while walking.

Wear bright, visible clothing

Wearing bright or reflective clothing can make you more visible to drivers, especially during low light conditions like dusk or dawn. Use reflective tape or stickers on your clothes or bag for added visibility. These ideas are excellent way to alert drivers of your presence. Avoid wearing dark clothing, especially during the night. It’s important for pedestrians to make themselves visible to drivers on the road.

Walk on the sidewalk

Walking on the sidewalk is the safest place for pedestrians. If there is no sidewalk, walk as far to the left as possible, facing traffic. It’s essential to walk against traffic to see cars approaching and react if necessary. Stay alert for driveways or alleys where cars can turn unexpectedly.

When walking on the road, pedestrians must walk defensively, with safety in mind. In other words, they should be cautious, walk slowly, and check both sides of the road before crossing. Never assume that vehicles will automatically stop for pedestrians; always wait until it is safe to cross.

Avoid distractions

As a pedestrian, it’s your responsibility to prioritize your safety. Avoid distractions that can take your focus away from your surroundings. Don’t smoke or eat while crossing the road. Keep your hands-free and carry items in a backpack or bag. Stay alert and prepared to move if necessary.

In other words, they should not get distracted by their phones, music, or anything that might cause them to lose focus. Keeping your eyes on the road will allow you to take quick action if you see any vehicles speeding on the road.

Pedestrian safety is a vital aspect of road safety. It’s essential to take responsibility for your safety and follow pedestrian safety tips to prevent accidents. Always use designated pedestrian crossings, be aware of your surroundings, wear bright, visible clothing, walk on the sidewalk, and avoid distractions.

While it’s true that the driver’s actions are responsible for many of these accidents, it’s always important for pedestrians also to do their part by staying alert, visible, and walking defensively. Pedestrian safety is critical, and pedestrians must prioritize their safety while walking on the road. By following these simple tips, you can avoid accidents, protect your life, and make the roads safer for everyone. Remember, safety first, always!

Despite all these safety measures, accidents happen. If you or a loved one is injured in an accident call the professional attorneys at Capital Injury Law today!