To avoid a pedestrian accident, it’s important you are aware of your responsibilities. If you’re elderly or traveling with small children, extra precaution must be taken.
Many pedestrian accidents could have been prevented by safety improvements – better markings and warning lights at crossings, reduced speed limits, etc. The legal concept of “right of way” refers to the right one party has over another to proceed safety on the roadway. Usually the right of way is obvious with signs or signals that tell pedestrians and drivers what to do. In other situations where there’s no signals, the law spells out who has the right of way. Many drivers assume that they have right of way, even if there’s no sign or signal.
These accidents are often unpredictable, and no one expects to find themselves involved in one. Unfortunately, it’s necessary to lay out some tips for people who are at risk. This isn’t a complete list, but it’s a good starting point for those who are looking to avoid common pitfalls as pedestrians.
If you’ve been injured as a pedestrian, contact a pedestrian accident lawyer for help. Damages in these cases can be high, and hiring an attorney can help get you the compensation you deserve.
7 Helpful Tips To Avoid Pedestrian Accidents
- Look both ways: Before taking your first step across a street, look both ways. It seems simple and a bit childish, but this basic tip can save your life. Do not assume that by taking a quick glance on a seemingly quiet street that there’s no traffic.
- Pay attention to stoplights and street signs: Don’t rush to get across an intersection. While time may seem of the essence, make sure you are only walking when given the proper signal. Jumping the gun and walking before you have the signal can be costly.
- Be alert when crossing: Though you may have the right of way when crossing in a crosswalk, keep your head on a swivel. Drivers may be distracted or speeding, putting your life at risk. Even if they see you while going at a high rate of speed, they may not have enough time to stop.
- Don’t walk alone if drunk: Like if you were operating a motor vehicle, crossing streets while impaired by alcohol can be treacherous. It’s probably best to just take an Uber or call a friend or family member.
- Be careful at night: You are less visible to drivers at night, especially if you’re wearing dark clothing. While it’s not always possible to have on bright, reflective clothing, keep this in mind if you’re walking at night.
- Use sidewalks when available: Another obvious tip, but it bears repeating. If there’s a sidewalk, use it. If you must walk in the street, walk facing oncoming traffic.