As a pedestrian, you never know what is going to happen around you. A car could come speeding by as you take a step off the sidewalk. A bus could forget to stop at a red light.
You need to be prepared for everything, as this can go a long way in helping you avoid a serious accident.
From a pedestrian safety point of view, here are some of the many things you should consider:
- Only cross the street at a designated crosswalk. This is not always possible, but it’s something you should absolutely try to do.
- Increase your visibility, especially when you are walking at night. One of the best ways of doing so is to wear reflective clothing.
- Always walk on a sidewalk, if available. If this is not a possibility, you should face traffic as you walk on the shoulder of the road. There is never a good time to share a lane of traffic with motor vehicles.
- Avoid distractions. Just the same as drivers, you need to avoid distractions when walking. This can include but is not limited to texting, talking on the phone, and listening to music.
When it comes to pedestrian safety, there is no such thing as being too cautious. You need to know what is happening around you at all times, as this awareness can help you avoid a serious accident.
If you are part of a pedestrian accident, such as one in which you are struck by a vehicle, stay put as you wait for help to arrive.
Once you receive treatment and have a clear idea of your injuries, you should learn more about the accident. You may find that the driver was acting in a negligent manner at the time of the crash, such as by texting.
Your health is always most important, but you should also have a clear idea of your legal rights as well.
