Are you one of the many people walking to work or school daily? If so, it’s important to know how to stay safe while navigating busy sidewalks. Here are some tips for avoiding accidents during your commute.
Wear brightly colored clothing to be visible to drivers
Drivers aren’t looking for pedestrians. And, even if they are, it’s easy to overlook someone blending in with their surroundings. Wearing brightly colored clothing is easy to make sure you’re visible to drivers, especially when walking in low-light conditions. Moreover, reflective gear can also help you stand out. If you’re feeling extra cautious, consider carrying a flashlight or wearing reflective tape on your clothing or shoes. Whether walking to your car in a dimly lit parking lot or out for an early morning jog, wearing bright colors will help you stand out and stay safe. So, next time you head out for a walk or run, make sure to put on something that will help you stand out from the crowd.
Make sure you’re aware of your surroundings and what’s going on around you
Regarding your daily commute, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and what’s happening around you. Being alert and mindful can help avoid accidents on the sidewalk. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Be aware of your blind spots. Look both ways before crossing the street or entering a crosswalk. This will help ensure that you’re not surprised by oncoming traffic.
- Pay attention to construction zones and detours. When walking in construction areas, stay clear of any potential hazards. Obey all posted signs and warning signals.
- Watch out for ice and snow. In winter weather, take extra care to watch for slippery surfaces. Wear appropriate footwear and walk slowly and carefully.
Following these simple tips can help ensure a safe and accident-free journey on your daily commute.
Cross the street at crosswalks and intersections whenever possible
As a pedestrian, it’s always best to cross the street at a designated crosswalk or intersection whenever possible. This is because drivers expect pedestrians to be crossing in these areas and are more likely to yield the right of way. Crossing in other locations, such as in the middle of the block or between parked cars, can be much more dangerous. Drivers may not see you, or they may not expect you to be crossing in that location. This could cause an accident for pedestrians or bicyclists trying to cross a street in the wrong place. If an accident occurs, keep calm and call the police immediately.
You may also want to seek medical attention, even if you don’t think you’re injured. And, if you need legal assistance, be sure to contact a pedestrian or bicycle accident attorney, if you are a cyclist, as soon as possible. So, if you can cross at a crosswalk or intersection. As a result, it’s essential to use caution and follow established pedestrian protocols whenever possible.
Look both ways before crossing the street, even if you have the right-of-way
You might think you’re being extra cautious by looking both ways before crossing the street, even if you have the right of way. But did you know that more than half of all pedestrian fatalities happen when pedestrians have the right-of-way? That’s because many drivers don’t yield to pedestrians, even in the crosswalk. So, next time you’re about to step into the street, take an extra moment to look left, right, and left again. It could save your life.
Pay attention to traffic signs and signals
Paying attention to traffic signs and signals is important when you’re out walking. Although sidewalks are typically considered safe places to walk, accidents can and do happen. By keeping an eye out for cars and other hazards, you can help to keep yourself safe. Attention to traffic signs and signals can also help you avoid getting ticketed or fined. In most jurisdictions, pedestrians are required to follow the same road rules as drivers. That means obeying traffic signals and yield signs. So, next time you’re out for a walk, keep an eye out for signs and signals. It could save you from getting into an accident — or from getting a ticket.
We hope this article has helped make you more aware of the dangers of walking around town. Following these simple tips can help keep yourself safe and avoid being involved in an accident. Remember, it’s always important to be alert and aware of your surroundings, no matter where you are.
