Whether you’re riding your bike down the street or walking to your car parked on the side of the road, pedestrians are incredibly vulnerable to being hit by vehicles and bicycles. Have you ever wondered how to protect yourself as a pedestrian? Apply these 7 tips to help keep you and your loved ones safe when you have to be near moving vehicles.
1. Wear Reflective Clothing
It is estimated that it takes people an average of 20 minutes to see adequately in the dark. When walking at night when it is difficult to see, reflective clothing can alert drivers to the fact that you’re on the side of the road.
2. Bring a Flashlight
Walking with a flashlight alerts vehicles and cyclists that you’re on the sidewalk and gives them an idea of where you are. It is important, however, to keep your flashlight pointed towards the ground. If you walk with your flashlight shining in front of you, it can blind the drivers traveling towards you.
3. Always Walk on Sidewalks
If there is a sidewalk, use it. Sidewalks are generally built a safe distance from moving traffic. If you’re forced to walk in a place where a sidewalk is not available, walk on the side facing the opposite direction of traffic. This allows you more time to react to any dangerous situations. When going around corners, walk as far away from the road as possible.
4. Protect Your Pets
If you’re walking with your dogs or any other pets, keep them on a short leash and make sure they can’t slip their heads out of their collars or escape their harnesses. Always walk in between the road and your pet; drivers will see you more easily and you can prevent your pet from trying to dart out into the street.
5. Take Safety Measures When Crossing Intersections
If the intersection displays pedestrian signals, only cross when the walking signal is displayed. Even then, make sure that other drivers turning onto the road you’re crossing realize you’re there. If the intersection doesn’t display pedestrian signals, be extremely cautious by looking both directions multiple times as you’re crossing. Always try to make eye contact with the drivers to alert them that you’re crossing the road.
6. Don’t Be Distracted
The biggest danger to pedestrians is being distracted, especially with a cell phone in their hand or pressed against their ear. While it’s important for drivers to be aware of their surroundings, they must also focus on driving safely in a pedestrian dense area such as a shopping center.
7. Think Like a Driver
Imagine yourself as a driver and how easily you notice people walking on sidewalks or on the side of the road. Take the necessary measures that would help you recognize pedestrians easily if you were behind the wheel.
By following these simple tips, you can be a better-prepared pedestrian the next time you go out and about. If you’ve been injured as a pedestrian by a vehicle, contact Colley & Colley law firm in Tyler, Texas for a free consultation. We provide the best legal care in East Texas for pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers injured in automobile accidents.
15511 W Highway 71
Suite 110-142
Austin, TX 78738
(512) 477-2001
512-477-3335
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