Pedestrians frequently take their safety for granted. Those who routinely walk on the same streets or who jog for exercise expect drivers to watch for them and adjust their habits for everyone’s safety. Unfortunately, motorists regularly make decisions that result in serious pedestrian crashes.
Every year, thousands of people die in preventable pedestrian collisions, while tens of thousands of people sustain significant injuries. Many of these collisions occur because of poor choices made by motorists, but there are ways for pedestrians to reduce their risk of collisions.
How can pedestrians prioritize their safety when walking on public roads?
Prioritize visibility
Obviously, those who walk from home to work can’t wear neon clothing every day. However, there are ways that people can make themselves more noticeable to drivers without wearing fluorescent colors. Crossing at marked locations when the light gives the pedestrian the right of way is one of the best ways to ensure that drivers notice pedestrians as they approach an intersection. Trying to walk on lighted roads during transitional times of the day or after the sun sets can also help reduce the risk of a preventable crash.
Be careful in parking lots
Parking lots force people to share their space with numerous vehicles. Pedestrians may be at risk of drivers failing to notice them, especially if those drivers are under the influence or distracted while driving. Pedestrians in parking lots may want to look carefully before crossing behind or even in front of a parked running vehicle, as the driver may start moving with little warning.
Avoid distraction and impairment
When pedestrians are partially at fault for collisions, it is often because they engage in some of the same behaviors that drivers should avoid. Walking home from a bar or party can be dangerous, as people under the influence may stumble or may fail to properly monitor their surroundings. Similarly, distracted walking caused by mobile games, text messages or social media can be quite dangerous. People looking down at their phones might step out into traffic and end up hit by an oncoming vehicle.
When a pedestrian crash occurs and it is clearly the fault of a motorist, the injured pedestrian can potentially request compensation for the expenses incurred because of the wreck. Establishing fault and quantifying the damages caused by the crash are both important steps for those seeking justice after pedestrian collisions. People who prioritize safety on the streets can limit their risk of getting hurt and increase their chances of making an effective compensation claim in the event that a crash occurs despite their best efforts.
