Walking is an excellent alternative to commuting via car, bus, or rideshare services. It helps the environment and offers health benefits to yourself. If you regularly walk to work, to the grocery store, or to visit a friend in the afternoon, you may grow comfortable with your surroundings. You’re likely not expecting an accident.
Pedestrian deaths made up over 6,000 traffic accident deaths in 2018, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Distracted drivers and busy roads can cause terrible accidents. Pedestrians need to take precautions before heading out.
Here are a few essential safety tips you should remember:
- Always cross at the crosswalk. When car accidents occur at the crosswalk, the driver will most likely be liable for the accident as you were passing in the proper place. Similarly, if you’re using the sidewalks properly when a car hits you, the fault will not be with you. If you cross the street where you’re not supposed to, it can be more challenging to prove the driver was at fault.
- Keep your phone away. If you’re looking down at your phone, you may miss a car approaching until it’s too late. Leave your phone out of reach so you’re not distracted while you’re walking.
- Don’t listen to music too loudly. If you’re listening to music with headphones, it’s best to keep the volume low so you can still hear traffic around you. Headphones can block the sound of honking cars, which can be detrimental.
- Obey traffic laws. Make sure you follow crosswalk signals and any other road signs while you’re out and about. Don’t cross until it’s lawful to do so to prevent any accidents.
- Cross the street in well-lit areas. If you’re out in the evening, it’s best to cross the road at intersections where there’s adequate lighting. This ensures drivers can see you as they approach.
As the weather gets warmer, you’re probably eager to enjoy walking more often to run errands to commute to work in the morning. Unfortunately, drivers can be irresponsible on the road, and pedestrians can’t always expect them to obey the laws. Instead, with these precautions, you can hopefully protect yourself from a terrible accident.
