Pedestrian collisions account for 16 percent of motor vehicle-related deaths and over 6 percent of motor vehicle-related injuries, according to data from the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Statistics show that pedestrians are 50 percent more likely to die in preventable collisions. To ensure you don’t become another statistic, follow these seven tips to survive pedestrian collisions.
1. Get Out of the Way
If you cannot get out of the way, your next task is to stay visible. If you’re walking at night, make sure you’re wearing something reflective. If it’s daytime, but with low lighting, try to keep in a lit area and wear light colors. When an unavoidable collision is imminent, your job is not to get out of the way but rather to stay on your feet.
2. Watch Your Surroundings
One mistake people make is assuming that a driver will see them. Be especially careful at intersections, where most crashes occur. These tips will come in handy to keep you safe:
- Be cautious of cars backing out of driveways or parking spaces.
- When a vehicle is stopped in the street, ensure a driver does not plan to turn into your path.
- Don’t forget about parallel-parked cars and vehicles double-parked along the curb.
3. Use the Zebra Stripes
While this may seem like common sense, you would be surprised how many people forget to use crosswalks when they are available. If there is a crosswalk, use it! Even if you don’t see any cars coming down the road, use it anyway. If no crosswalk is in sight and you’re unsure if you have the right of way, play it safe and get across with a crosswalk.
4. Pay Attention to the Lights
Pay attention to the lights. Driving requires paying attention to the lights, and so does walking. When those little white guys start flashing, you need to know that it’s time to cross the street. And when those little red guys start flashing? Well, that means it’s time for you and me to stop! Otherwise, we risk being hit by a car making a legal turn on red.
5. Avoid Distractions While Crossing the Street
The most important way to avoid being hit by a car is to be aware of what is happening around you. Don’t wear headphones or talk on the phone, and stay focused on your surroundings. If you are crossing a busy street, wait for the cars to stop before walking into the crosswalk. Never assume that a driver can see you and will stop for you.
6. Always Walk on a Sidewalk or Pathway
Take the most extended route home if you have to; stay on the sidewalk. You may think that taking a shortcut down a local street is safer than walking along the main road, but you would be wrong. Walking along the sidewalk is always safer as it keeps you farther away from cars and other vehicles. In addition, sidewalks are smoother and easier to walk on than dirt paths.
7. Never Assume a Driver Sees You
As a pedestrian, you must always take responsibility for your safety. Never assume that a driver sees you. Make eye contact with drivers before crossing in front of them and wait until they acknowledge you by nodding or waving before crossing.
Conclusion
Drivers are at fault most of the time. By following straightforward guidelines and ensuring you’re visible and alert, you can stay safe on sidewalks, streets, and other pedestrian-heavy areas. In case of an accident, don’t hesitate to contact a reputable attorney firm for legal representation!
