Road safety isn’t just a concern for drivers. Pedestrians, too, have a critical role to play in keeping our streets safe. Each year, countless pedestrians are injured or worse due to road accidents. If you are injured in such an accident, click here to speak to a lawyer about dealing with the aftermath. It is always better not to do things yourself if you don’t have proper legal knowledge.
To reduce such unfortunate incidents, here are six tips that pedestrians can follow to stay safe on the road.
- Use Sidewalks and Crosswalks
Sidewalks and crosswalks are designed specifically for pedestrian safety. Always use them when available. If there’s no sidewalk, walk facing the direction of oncoming traffic and stay as far from the roadway as possible. When crossing the street, always use a crosswalk or pedestrian crossing.
- Follow Traffic Rules
Pedestrians must adhere to traffic rules just like motorists. Only cross the street at designated crosswalks and only when the pedestrian signal indicates it’s safe to do so. Even then, always look left, right, and then left again before proceeding.
- Stay Visible
Make sure drivers can see you, especially at night or in low-light conditions. Wear brightly colored or reflective clothing, and if you’re walking at night, use a flashlight. When crossing the street, make eye contact with drivers when possible to ensure they see you.
- Stay Alert
Avoid any distractions that could prevent you from noticing an approaching vehicle. This means not using your phone, not wearing headphones, and being aware of your surroundings at all times.
- Avoid Alcohol and Drugs
Alcohol and drugs can impair your ability to walk safely, just as they can impair a person’s ability to drive. They can slow your reaction times and affect your judgment, making it more difficult for you to get across the street safely.
- Teach Children Road Safety
Children are particularly vulnerable to road accidents because they’re small, unpredictable, and often lack the judgment to navigate traffic safely. So, you should teach your children about road safety from a young age. You should also show them how to cross the street safely and remind them to always look out for cars, even when they’re on a sidewalk.
