October marks Pedestrian Safety Month, a timely reminder for pedestrians to exercise caution and for drivers to watch out for them. It couldn’t be a more appropriate reminder: with the increase in population and both walkers and vehicles on the road, the number of pedestrian fatalities in 2022 reached a 40-year high. While walking more is generally healthy, we must take care that the risks of walking the streets don’t overshadow those health benefits. Let’s look at some common-sense tips for pedestrian safety.
Crosswalks are specifically designed to protect pedestrians by giving them the right of way in a controlled and visible manner. Before stepping into the crosswalk, make sure to follow traffic signals and look both ways to ensure no vehicles are approaching unexpectedly.
If drivers can’t see you, they won’t know how to avoid you, so make sure they see you. Wear bright or reflective clothing, especially during early mornings, evenings, or in poor weather conditions. This reduces the risk of accidents by making it easier for drivers to see you from a distance.
Distracted walking can be just as dangerous as distracted driving. For example, looking at your phone while walking can divert your attention away from your surroundings and prevent you from seeing oncoming traffic. Similarly, wearing headphones (especially noise-cancelling headphones) can prevent you from important sound cues that vehicles are close. Stay alert and focused on the environment around you, as this awareness is critical for your safety.
If you’re at an intersection where a vehicle is either waiting for you or attempting to turn into your path, don’t assume the driver is paying attention. Stop and make eye contact with the driver before stepping into the roadway. This simple gesture ensures that the driver knows you’re there, reducing the likelihood of misunderstandings and potential collisions.
Despite taking all the necessary precautions, accidents can still happen, whether due to a driver’s inattention, an unmarked hazard on the sidewalk, etc. If you are injured in a pedestrian accident because of someone else’s negligence, the law gives you the right to be compensated for your injuries. Contact our personal injury attorneys to explore your options and ensure that your rights are protected.
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