How to Avoid a Pedestrian Accident
Whether you’re walking your child to school or just getting some fresh air on your daily afternoon stroll, it’s important to stay safe, especially as a pedestrian. Walking around town is a great way to see the sights and get some exercise, but that doesn’t mean it is always the safest method of transportation. In Austin, Texas the pedestrian fatality rate rose significantly in recent years and is listed in the top 25 most dangerous cities for pedestrians.
Safety Tips for Pedestrians
Half of pedestrian fatalities occur during the weekends and late at night between 8 pm -12 am. More people are out driving, and even more people are going out to enjoy the weekend. To avoid a pedestrian accident here are some safety tips you can utilize to ensure your safety as a pedestrian.
Always use designated crosswalks – This way people know you are trying to cross and you can use the traffic lights to ensure a safe crossing.- Look both ways – This may sound like common sense, but too many people are hit because they forgot to look both ways or they were distracted and just assumed the road was clear.
- Wear reflective or bright clothing – If your wearing dark clothing at night, it is extremely difficult for cars to distinguish that somebody may be walking or crossing a street, until it is too late. Try to carry a flashlight, or wear a bright item or put reflective pieces on your clothes so that you are visible to oncoming cars.
- Never walk along the street – drivers could be distracted, or just simply not see you and if you’re in the road your chances of getting hit, instantly increase. Walk along the sidewalk and stay as far from the road as possible.
If you or a loved one is injured when jogging or walking down a street, you need to contact the Loewy Law Firm. We are experienced in personal injury and pedestrian accidents to help you get the compensation you deserve.