Following good pedestrian safety practices is important when sharing the road with motor vehicles. While drivers have a responsibility to watch for pedestrians, those walking near the road should also take steps to protect themselves.
The following safety tips can help pedestrians avoid motor vehicle accidents.
Stay alert and avoid distractions
Pedestrians should stay focused when walking near traffic. Using phones, listening to music with headphones or engaging in any activity that draws a driver’s attention away from their surroundings can increase the risk of car accidents. Always keep an eye on the road and sidewalks, especially when crossing streets.
Cross at designated areas
Crosswalks and intersections are the safest places for pedestrians to cross the road. These areas feature thoughtful designs that help both pedestrians and drivers avoid accidents. Pedestrians should avoid crossing the street in the middle of a block, as this increases the risk of a sudden vehicle collision. When at a crosswalk, pedestrians should wait for the signal and ensure vehicles have stopped before stepping onto the street.
Make eye contact with drivers
Before crossing a street, pedestrians should make eye contact with stopped drivers to ensure that the driver sees them. Even if a pedestrian has the right of way, there is always a risk that a driver might not notice someone crossing the road.
Wear bright or reflective clothing
At night or in low-light conditions, wearing bright or reflective clothing can help pedestrians stay visible to drivers. Motor vehicle accidents involving pedestrians often occur because the driver cannot see the person walking. Reflective gear, especially on darker streets, helps increase visibility and lowers the risk of accidents.
Walk on sidewalks or facing traffic
Whenever possible, pedestrians should walk on sidewalks. If no sidewalks are available, walking on the side of the road while facing traffic helps pedestrians see oncoming vehicles and react if necessary. Staying alert and visible can prevent dangerous situations.
There are approximately 15,000 pedestrian injuries and 300 pedestrian deaths in New York State each year. Being just a bit more mindful about safety can help everyone reduce this unfortunate statistic.
