Pedestrian Safety Precautions Worth Considering

Pedestrian Safety Precautions Worth Considering

Walking is great exercise and it is also a great way to enjoy the outdoors and all that it has to offer. However when walking is combined with motor vehicle traffic the results can sometimes be catastrophic especially if safety precautions are not taken or negligent driver makes an error. Each year countless numbers of people are treated in emergency rooms across the country for a wide range of injuries associated with pedestrian accidents.

Wearing Bright Reflective Colors

Reducing the possibility of an accident occurring as a pedestrian simply means following some basic and straightforward safety precautions. For example, always crossing the street at a designated crosswalk is essential. This simple act alone can greatly reduce the chances of being struck or impacted by a motor vehicle. In addition, wearing bright reflective colors when walking, running or strolling along can make a pedestrian far more visible, thereby reducing the possibility of an accident. Pedestrians should always take a defensive stance and even when crossing at a crosswalk should be cautious and watch drivers carefully.

Choose To Walk On A Sidewalk

Those walking at night, in addition to wearing bright reflective clothing should also carry some type of flashlight. This increases visibility and let’s cars know that there is a pedestrian on the street. It should also go without saying that if a sidewalk is available that pedestrians should always choose to walk on a sidewalk as opposed to walking on a road. Pedestrians should exercise additional extreme caution when walking in areas where there are large trucks such as semi’s and 18-wheelers. These types of vehicles require a longer stopping distance and can be even more life threatening to pedestrians.

Pedestrians Should Always Avoid Distractions

The old saying look both ways before crossing the road is just as true today as it was decades ago. Trust in this old adage and always look both ways before ever attempting to cross a road or street. Drivers can often miss-judge distances and simply not see a pedestrian when moving at a fast pace along a road or street. Finally, pedestrians should always avoid distractions such as talking on a cell phone or texting when crossing an intersection or walking along a road. Contact Hastings and Hastings any time you have been involved in an accident as a pedestrian in the greater Phoenix area.