773-365-0040
Making our roadways safe is a responsibility shared by everyone including motorcyclists, vehicle drivers, cyclists and pedestrians. While safe driving is a large factor in road safety, it’s also important to value the courtesy of pedestrians. Pedestrian accidents can be very serious due to the sheer size difference between a vehicle and a person. With an increased awareness of a surrounding area and visibility precautions, pedestrian accidents may be prevented. Don’t get caught up in an unnecessary accident: follow these steps to becoming a save and courteous pedestrian.
Make Yourself Seen
Make sure to always make yourself as visible as possible to drivers. It helps to wear bright or reflective clothing especially when you are walking at night. It’s also a good idea to carry some sort of light when walking at night to make yourself extra visible. Make sure to stand out and away from obstacles that may obstruct drivers’ views of you. If you are going to cross the street, don’t just jump out from behind a parked car or a snow bank to do it—step out slowly and make sure that oncoming traffic knows that you are there. Finally, make sure that you try to always make eye contact with drivers to ensure that they acknowledge your presence.
Avoid Dangerous Situations
Make sure to always walk on the sidewalk if the sidewalk is an option. If it’s not an option, walk facing traffic to be more aware of what drivers are doing. When you do have to cross the street, actually use the crosswalk and obey the lights at crosswalks—they are there for a reason! Make sure to avoid cutting across intersections diagonally. Stick within the boundaries of the crosswalks, and cross one street at a time. Look all around you when crossing the street, even if it’s a one-way. Also, listen for sounds like honking, backup noises, and look out for backup lights and blinkers. Vehicles will not always just stop because you are there. Assuming that they will could end badly for you.
Get Off the Phone
Distracted walking is among the top reasons for pedestrian accidents. If you are looking at your phone, listening to music, or talking on the phone, you are probably not as spatially aware as you otherwise would be. Avoid looking down when walking. Make sure that you are aware of your surroundings and get off of the phone!
Help do your part to make our roadways safe whether it be in a car, on a bike, or on foot. Minimizing accidents is a responsibility that rests on all of our shoulders. Safer roadways mean a happier, healthier society. If you happen to have an accident despite your best safety efforts, Shea Law Group may be able to help. Contact us online or call us at (877) 365-0040 to find out how.
