5 Tips You Should Follow To Prevent Pedestrian Accidents
Nobody expects to be run over by a car while walking on the road. But unfortunately, it happens. If you’ve experienced this, your first course of action should be to search for a pedestrian accident lawyer in your area. They will help you navigate the process. If you allow it, they will take charge of the entire procedure while you focus on your recovery.
In this article, we’ll be outlining 5 tips that we can all follow to prevent pedestrian accidents.
1. Adhere Strictly To Traffic Rules
Most people often overlook the importance of adhering to traffic rules and regulations. The best guarantee we have for staying out of harm’s way is doing things by the book.
As road users, we must all educate ourselves on the uses and significance of traffic signals, crosswalks, and pedestrians’ right of way. By doing all of this, we not only ensure our safety but also contribute to the overall flow of traffic.
It doesn’t matter whether you are at an intersection or a crosswalk. There are rules for every juncture that can help minimize the risks of an accident.
Furthermore, pedestrians should refrain from jaywalking. It is illegal in several states and is a known cause of pedestrian accidents.
2. Anticipate Obstacles
While you’re on the road, stay alert to anticipate potential obstacles. This is an effective approach for navigating one’s surroundings safely.
Try to scan your environment for uneven surfaces, portholes, or other obstacles that might hurt you.
With this sense of awareness, you can reduce your chances of tripping and falling. You would also cultivate a sense of control and preparedness.
3. Avoid Walking When You drunk
Driving under the influence isn’t just a problem for motorists. It is a recurring problem for pedestrians as well.
Alcohol or drugs have serious effects on a person. Excessive consumption often leads to
- Impaired judgment
- Poor motor skills
- Reduced reaction times
Someone who’s had one too many beers is bound to ignore the signs on the road and all sense of safety for themselves and others on the road. These people are bound to stray into the road and cause accidents, causing difficulties for themselves and the driver who hits them.
If you’re planning to drink and don’t have anyone to drop you off, consider calling an Uber or any other ridesharing service.
4. Wear Bright Clothes While You Walk By The Road
Lack of visibility is the reason hundreds of people have become victims of pedestrian accidents.
As pedestrians, you can curb the risks on your end by wearing bright-colored and visible clothing, especially in low-light conditions or during inclement weather.
The principle here is simple but powerful: increased visibility reduces the likelihood of drivers overlooking pedestrians. Opt for reflective or brightly colored clothing, especially during dawn, dusk, or nighttime walks. This is the best way to ensure that you stand out in a driver’s field of vision.
Drivers who do not have clear vision can opt for visual enhancers such as glasses to enable them to spot pedestrians.
5. Do Not Give In To Distractions
Avoiding distractions is a critical component of pedestrian safety. It’s always tempting to check your phone, read a message, or engage in conversation while walking. But always remember that succumbing to these distractions can have severe consequences.
Stay focused on the road, especially when crossing intersections. If possible, put your phone away completely.
Wrapping Up
Getting involved in a pedestrian accident can have overwhelming consequences. As they say, “Prevention is better than cure’’. If you follow all of the tips mentioned above, you’ll be able to keep yourself safe and out of harm’s way at all times.
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