Walking is something that Americans probably aren’t doing enough of, but it isn’t actually always the safest practice. There is one instance of pedestrian injuries due to a car accident every seven minutes in the United States. If you enjoy walking or would like to do more of it, here are three tips for staying safe and not getting hit by a car.
Pay attention
This is obvious, but it still needs to be said. People are looking at their cell phones or daydreaming when they’re walking around, which can be really dangerous. Everyone has a responsibility to watch where they are going and know that drivers aren’t always able to see pedestrians. Look both ways before crossing any street. Just because you’re walking in a crosswalk doesn’t mean that people won’t be able to hit you.
Always use designated pathways and crosswalks
Just because you’re on foot and can probably reasonably navigate any path that doesn’t mean you should go around jaywalking. Use designated pedestrian paths since those are where the city’s planners have decided are safe areas to cross streets and that’s where drivers are going to be expecting pedestrians.
Take extra measures at night
When walking at night, make sure that you make yourself as visible as possible, especially if you’re not walking on a sidewalk or away from the road. Wear reflective and bright colored clothing and carry a flashlight with you. Drivers typically don’t have night vision. Don’t expect them to know you’re there.
Pedestrian injuries are not always deadly, and if you’ve been injured in an accident, you should start looking for personal injury lawyers as soon as you can. You should of course always seek medical attention and have the authorities document the information, but as an injured pedestrian, you might have grounds for a personal injury lawsuit.
