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Smart And Sensible Strategies For Pedestrians

September 20, 2014 Hastings and Hastings

Smart And Sensible Strategies For Pedestrians

Being a pedestrian today carries certain risks especially when walking near vehicles that are moving at high speed or when crossing intersections where vehicles are turning. With that said, there are some smart and sensible strategies for staying safe as a pedestrian that are worth considering. For example, distractions are one of the easiest ways to get in trouble when walking near cars, trucks and motorcycles. Avoid conversations, telephone calls or texting when acting as a pedestrian.

Alternative Arrangements

Another important consideration that is very important is to always be sober and not impaired when walking. Those that take pharmaceutical drugs, drink alcohol or partake in other activities that can impair their judgment should avoid walking near or around vehicles. Walking as a pedestrian or crossing a crosswalk while impaired increases the probability of being struck by a vehicle. Making alternative arrangements is always the best option. From riding a bus to taking a cab or calling a friend, staying safe sometimes just means using a little common sense.

Keep Them Safe

In addition, bright reflective clothing can go a long way in making a pedestrian more visible at night and even during the day. Conversely, wearing dark clothing that is non-reflective is a sure way to increase the chances of being struck while walking. Most importantly, teaching children about walking near vehicles is a smart and effective way to keep them safe well into adulthood. This is essential because young children generally lack the judgment required to make safe choices when walking in and around vehicles.

Remain Alert

Perhaps most important with regard to teaching children to be safe pedestrians is that their small size makes them more difficult to see. Teaching children at an early age about how to be safe near roads and on crosswalks can go a long way in giving them the judgment they need to make the right choices as they get older. Finally, it is always a good idea to remain alert when walking along the street or even in a parking lot. Be aware of your surroundings and know where vehicles are in order to be a defensive pedestrian. Contact Hastings and Hastings to file a Phoenix personal injury claim if you have been injured due to the negligence of another individual.