Pedestrian Safety: Is it Safe to Walk?

When you hear terms like “car wreck” or “car accident”, you most likely envision two cars mangled up in the middle of the road. But the reality is that car wrecks involve many different possible scenarios. In fact, some of them don’t involve multiple vehicles but involve pedestrians instead.

In 2019, more than 6,200 pedestrians died in auto accidents. That accounts for one pedestrian death every 85 minutes. Many of these accidents were due to a vehicle driver not obeying the law or not yielding the right of way to pedestrians. Sadly, many of the injuries and deaths could be prevented with more careful driving and pedestrian awareness.

With all this in mind, we must wonder, “is it safe to walk?” After all, many communities and cities are focusing on being pedestrian-friendly. But is it really safe to be near the road? Our car wreck lawyer discusses tips for pedestrian safety that could help keep you safe.

Pedestrian Safety Tips

Before hitting the sidewalk, take a look at these tips for pedestrian safety. Make sure you communicate safety tips with your family and friends.

1. Be as predictable as possible.
2. Be as visible as possible. Wear bright clothing or reflective gear when walking near the road. If you are walking at night, take a flashlight with you to improve visibility.
3. Always follow the rules of the road. That includes obeying traffic signs and signals.
4. Whenever possible, walk on a sidewalk and not on the road.
5. If there is not a sidewalk, walk facing traffic. Also, walk as far to the side of the road as possible.
6. Be alert at all times. Avoid distractions like cell phones that can take your attention from your surroundings.
7. If you are walking through an intersection or crosswalk, make sure you look both ways. Always check for vehicles turning, as well.
8. If a crosswalk is not available, try to cross the road in a well-lit area.
9. Never attempt to guess how much time you have to cross the road. Make sure there is plenty of time between you crossing and oncoming traffic.
10. Never assume that a driver sees you near the road. Make eye contact with any driver approaching a crosswalk or intersection.
11. When walking, even on a sidewalk, make sure you are aware of driveways or parking lots where vehicles may be entering or exiting.
12. When walking, avoid alcohol or drugs. They can impair your awareness and your ability to make decisions.

Driver Safety Tips

Part of pedestrian safety is drivers being aware and practicing good driving skills when pedestrians are near the road. Our top driver safety tips involving pedestrians include:

1.  Be on the lookout for pedestrians at all times.
2. Use caution when driving at night or in bad weather.
3. Slow down and be prepared to stop when you enter a crosswalk or intersection.
4. Always yield to pedestrians who are in crosswalks.
5. When stopping at a crosswalk, leave plenty of room between you and those crossing.
6. Always drive the speed limit, but especially in areas where pedestrians are common.
7. Follow slower speed limits and other rules of the road in school zones.
8. Be very careful when backing up in the road or in a parking lot. Check your blind spots as well as your rearview camera or mirrors.
9. Never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Safety is a shared responsibility, and when drivers and pedestrians follow safety guidelines and laws, the roadway is a much safer place for everyone.