The first Wednesday in April each year is National Walking Day! On this day, people are encouraged to go outside, get some fresh air, and go for a walk! National Walking Day is a fitting time to bring awareness to pedestrian safety, as pedestrian accidents take the lives of thousands each year. In this article, we will explore some pedestrian safety tips to help you stay safe on National Walking Day.
Look Both Ways Before Crossing the Street
This first tip has likely been ingrained in your head since you were little. Needless to say, it’s very important to look both ways before crossing the street. Before crossing any crosswalk, intersection, neighborhood street, or even a bike path, it is important to take a look in both directions to ensure that you are safe to cross. Even though you may have the right of way, it is important to be conscientious that not everyone is unfortunately going to abide by these rules.
If possible, try and make eye contact with drivers before crossing the street to make sure that you are seen and that they understand you are crossing.
Obey Traffic Signs and Signals
As a pedestrian, it is vital that you obey traffic signs and signals. For example, only cross the street when the pedestrian crossing sign is lit up and indicates that it is safe to walk. Even if you think that the coast is clear and you take a gamble and cross the street, this could be incredibly risky. You never know who may be speeding around the corner or who may fail to obey the traffic lights.
Put Your Phone Down
In today’s digital age, people cannot seem to put their phones down. Whether people are texting friends, snapping a selfie, or posting to their social media accounts, the use of cell phones is a widespread pandemic. However, using your cell phone while walking is incredibly dangerous, as it diverts your attention away from your surroundings. Even listening to music while walking can be considered distracting. Put your phone down and keep your head up while walking.
Wear Bright or Reflective Clothing
Staying visible as a pedestrian is crucial to stay safe while walking. Especially if you are on a walk at night or in foggy weather, it is imperative that you wear brightly colored clothing as well as reflective accessories to enhance your visibility to motorists on the road. This will allow drivers to help spot you more easily, thereby reducing the risk of an accident occurring. However, if you wind up injured in an accident, it is important to speak with a New Haven personal injury lawyer about your legal options.
Use the Sidewalk
If there is a sidewalk, use it! Using the sidewalk is beneficial for pedestrians and drivers alike, as it greatly reduces the chances of a pedestrian accident occurring. In the event that there is not a sidewalk or a designated path for pedestrians to walk on, you should walk against traffic, clinging to the far left side of the road.
