Do you spend a lot of time walking near roadways? Do you often worry about your own safety while you’re a pedestrian?
Drivers are supposed to share the road with cyclists and pedestrians, but as you know, not all drivers do the correct things. Being involved in an accident is likely to be much more devastating and potentially fatal when you’re a pedestrian.
People inside a vehicle have some protection, but you’re exposed to the impact from a large, heavy object. Your safety is paramount.
You may have to be extra careful, especially in areas where drivers aren’t used to seeing many pedestrians around. To protect yourself, it may be helpful to know some tips on how to keep yourself safer.
This guide discusses ways to be extra cautious as well as some general rules of the road for pedestrians.
What Do I Do If I’m Injured as a Pedestrian?
Getting injured when you’re a pedestrian can be terrifying. In so many cases, the accident was probably not your fault at all.
You could be left with medical bills, emotional distress, and other health and financial impacts. The best way to get help after an accident is to contact a pedestrian accident lawyer for assistance. Look for help from attorneys in your area that have experience in these cases.
Five Safety Tips For Pedestrians
If you’re clear about where to turn if you ever get in a collision as a pedestrian, the next step is to go over some general pedestrian safety tips that everyone should know.
- Walk on sidewalks: While this might seem obvious, you may sometimes feel an urge to step into places off the sidewalk to get somewhere quicker. But, if at all possible, stay on available sidewalks to keep yourself safer.
- Be mindful of driveways and parking lot exits: Even drivers who try their best to watch for pedestrians might miss you in their blind spot. This is especially true when a year is backing out. So whenever you approach a driveway or parking lot exit, watch out for vehicles that may be leaving or returning.
- Always face traffic when there isn’t a sidewalk: Some roads and neighborhoods don’t have sidewalks. If you find yourself at one, walk toward traffic instead of away from it. Doing so will make it easier to see oncoming vehicles. Also, try to stay as far away from cars and trucks as possible for your safety.
- Obey the traffic laws and signs: It’s critical for drivers to follow all the rules of the road and obey signals and signs, but it’s just as imperative for pedestrians and cyclists to do the same. Stay aware of various indicators around you, such as stop signs, crosswalks, and more.
- Put down your phone: Many initiatives have been created to address texting and driving, and most people know they should put their phone away when they’re behind the wheel. It’s just as wise to put your phone away if you’re walking near a roadway. As a pedestrian, you’ll be more alert and much safer if you don’t text near traffic.
These are certainly not all the things you could do as a pedestrian, but they are generally the best ways to keep yourself safe. It’s also a good idea to tell others about these tips.
A Note For Drivers
Most drivers are pedestrians at some point, and most pedestrians do a bit of driving. Thus, whenever you get behind the wheel, remember how it feels to be a pedestrian.
Always remember that you have a special responsibility to share the road and follow traffic rules. Everyone must work together to keep the roads safe for all who use them, and that includes pedestrians as well as drivers, passengers, and cyclists.