While being careful as a pedestrian can significantly reduce your risk of being involved in an accident, it cannot guarantee complete protection from accidents. Several factors are uncontrollable as a pedestrian, such as the behavior of drivers, the condition of the road or sidewalk, and the weather.
The awareness of some crucial road safety tips can help reduce the likelihood of being involved in a pedestrian accident. But if you are involved in one, find qualified pedestrian accident legal advocates to help with your case.
Always Use Designated Pedestrian Crossings
Road construction authorities ensure they include crosswalks and pedestrian bridges when constructing roads. These crossings are designated for pedestrians to cross the road safely, usually marked with zebra stripes, traffic lights, or other signs. Using them makes pedestrians more visible to drivers, and they slow down or stop to allow them to cross safely.
Pay Attention to Traffic Lights
Traffic lights regulate the flow of traffic and ensure the safety of pedestrians and drivers. Pedestrians should always look for and obey pedestrian signals and traffic signs, such as pedestrian crossing signs, stoplights, and walk/don’t walk signals.
When the signal indicates it is safe to cross, pedestrians should do so promptly and remain aware of their surroundings. Ignoring traffic signs or not paying attention to them can lead to accidents, as drivers may not expect pedestrians to cross at that time.
Be Visible
Pedestrians should always wear bright, reflective clothing or accessories when walking in low-light conditions or at night. It helps drivers see them from a distance and react accordingly.
Additionally, pedestrians should try to make eye contact with drivers before crossing the road. It ensures that the driver sees them and knows their intention to cross. Pedestrians should also avoid walking behind obstacles that may obstruct their visibility, such as parked cars or large trucks.
Look Both Ways Before Crossing
Looking both ways before crossing is a fundamental road safety tip every pedestrian should follow. Pedestrians should look left, right, and left again before crossing the road. It helps them see if any vehicles are approaching and allow them to assess the speed and distance of the oncoming traffic.
Avoid Distractions
You must avoid using your phones, texting when crossing, or engaging in other activities that divert your attention from the road. These distractions can prevent you from noticing potential hazards, such as oncoming vehicles, bicycles, or pedestrians.
Pedestrians must remain aware of their surroundings and focus on the road ahead. By avoiding distractions, pedestrians can minimize their risk of getting into a pedestrian accident and ensure their safety while crossing the street.
Walk On Sidewalks
Sidewalks provide a safe and separate space for pedestrians to walk away from the road and vehicles. Pedestrians must always use sidewalks when available and avoid walking on the street unless necessary.
If there is no sidewalk, pedestrians should walk facing the oncoming traffic to increase their visibility to drivers.
Stay Sober
Walking under the influence of drugs or alcohol impairs your judgment and coordination, making it more difficult to react to potential hazards on the road. If you have been drinking or taking drugs, consider taking public transportation or calling a cab instead of walking.
Be Cautious Around Parked Cars
Pedestrians must be careful when walking near parked cars, as drivers may not see them when exiting or entering their parking spaces. When passing parked vehicles, maintain a safe distance and remain alert for any signs of movement or sound. They should also avoid walking between parked cars, which can obstruct their visibility to drivers.
Be Alert at All Times
Pedestrians should remain aware of their surroundings and focus on the road ahead. They should be alert for potential hazards, such as oncoming vehicles, bicycles, or pedestrians. Being observant helps to react quickly to any potential danger and take appropriate action to avoid accidents.
Final Thoughts
Both drivers and pedestrians have a responsibility to keep the roads safe. By following these road safety tips, pedestrians can reduce their risk of getting into a pedestrian accident and ensure their safety while walking.