Pedestrian deaths are rising quickly. The Governors Highway Safety Association found marked increases in the number of pedestrian fatalities in the U.S. Nearly 6,000 pedestrians were killed in 2017. That number marks a 25 year record high. To help safeguard you and your loved ones, we have compiled a list of ways to stay safe as a pedestrian.
1. Stay Attentive
Pedestrians, much like drivers, have long been preoccupied with using hand-held devices, listening to music, snacking, or reading. The effects are similar to those experienced by distracted drivers. As a result, pedestrians need pay attention to the surrounding roadways and the behavior of approaching vehicles at all times. Many motorists may be distracted while driving, and often do not consider whether a pedestrian may be in the area. If a motorist is driving erratically, staying alert can help you avoid the path of the approaching vehicle.
2. Use Appropriate Walkways
Pedestrians have a responsibility to participate in their own safety. Sharing the road with passing vehicles requires careful observation, sound judgment and care, such as:
- Using sidewalks, crosswalks, bridges or tunnels designated for pedestrians
- Obeying traffic signals and devices
- Staying to the right-hand side of crosswalks, when possible
- Walking on the side of the street that faces traffic when a sidewalk is not available
- Not crossing intersections in a diagonal direction
3. Remain Visible
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 32% of pedestrian-auto accident fatalities occur between 8 p.m. and 11:59 p.m. This is likely because the driver of the motor vehicle did not notice the pedestrian. Drivers must be able to see you to avoid accidentally striking you. One of the most effective ways be spotted by a vehicle is to make yourself visible. You can make yourself visible to motorists by:
- Making eye contact with an approaching motorist as often as possible
- Wearing light or bright colored clothing at night
- Remaining in well-lit areas to increase visibility
- Stay on the sidewalks when possible
4. Respect Traffic Signals
Traffic signs and signals are intended to help pedestrians anticipate the flow of traffic and future actions of nearby drivers. It is imperative that pedestrians carefully observe and follow these signals to avoid harm. Following these signs and devices will help keep you safe and prevent accidents.
5. Avoid Distractions
A distracted pedestrian may sustain serious injuries if he or she unknowingly walks into the road or does not follow traffic signals. As such, pedestrians should be cautious of being absorbed by any item or behavior that could cause them to become distracted while traveling next to the roadway. Common causes of pedestrian distraction that should be avoided include:
- Listening to music with headphones
- Texting or talking on cell phones
- Reading while walking
- Engaging in inappropriate behavior
6. Don’t Drink and Walk
According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly half of pedestrian-related auto accidents involve alcohol consumption. Approximately thirty-four percent of those accidents involved an impaired pedestrian.
Alcohol is known to impair a person’s ability to function and make sound decisions. Just as drivers should never drink and drive, pedestrians should never drink and walk near areas with heavy traffic.
It’s not easy to play the game all by yourself especially when you’ve been injured in a pedestrian-vehicle accident. Contact the lawyers at Sodhi Law Group to learn about your legal rights and see if you have a case.