We regularly hear about the latest highway crashes and car accidents but nobody is discussing the high number of pedestrian accidents that take place yearly. Pedestrian accidents are a significant concern in urban areas, with thousands of people injured or even killed each year due to collisions with vehicles or other reasons.
While drivers are often blamed for these accidents, pedestrians are also the guilty party sometimes as they fail to observe the road ahead, causing them to be unaware of their surroundings.
That’s why both drivers and pedestrians need to realize the importance of abiding by the traffic signs and lights. That’s the only way to help minimize the number of pedestrian fatalities and help raise awareness about the issue.
In the paragraphs below, we’ll shed some light on the issue and also provide pedestrians with some actionable tips on how to stay safe and avoid becoming collateral damage in traffic accidents.
Why do pedestrian accidents happen
Pedestrian accidents can occur for various reasons. Many factors impact pedestrian accidents, ranging from poor visibility and distracted walking to driver negligence and failure to follow traffic laws. There are an average of 7,500 pedestrians injured every year so it’s high time the problem be addressed.
For instance, many pedestrians cross the street outside of designated crosswalks and put themselves at higher risk of being involved in accidents. Additionally, texting, listening to music, or talking on the phone while walking can divert a pedestrian’s attention, making it harder to notice traffic and hazards.
On the other hand, drivers also contribute to pedestrian accidents. Alcohol and drugs impair both drivers and pedestrians, increasing the likelihood of accidents. While drivers are often involved in these accidents, pedestrians have a responsibility to make wise decisions to ensure their safety. Taking simple precautions can go a long way in avoiding unnecessary risks.
Avoiding pedestrian accidents
Pedestrians can do several things to protect themselves and they should prioritize their safety while going on their daily walks. Walking is definitely an activity that should be promoted for a healthier lifestyle, so it’s necessary to ensure pedestrians actually feel safe and protected.
In case an accident does happen, it’s necessary to provide pedestrians with access to legal support and enable them to get in touch with a pedestrian accident lawyer who’ll take over the insurance negotiations.
Using crosswalks and obeying traffic signals
One of the simplest and most effective ways pedestrians can avoid accidents is by using designated crosswalks and following the pedestrian traffic signals. You’d be surprised how many pedestrians completely ignore the crosswalk and simply cross the street wherever they see fit.
The location of each crosswalk is strategically chosen and they are usually placed in areas where drivers are most likely to notice them.
Also, pedestrians should only cross the streets when the pedestrian signal is green or walking.
In many US cities, a flashing “Don’t Walk” signal means it’s unsafe to cross, while a solid “Walk” signal provides a safe crossing time. These signals were put there for a reason and pedestrians shouldn’t ignore them.
Make sure they see you
Visibility is one of the most important factors in pedestrian safety. Drivers need to see pedestrians clearly, especially in low-light conditions such as early morning, evening, or during bad weather.
Pedestrians should make themselves as visible as possible by wearing bright or reflective clothing, particularly when walking at night or in conditions with poor visibility, such as rain or fog.
If you’re walking at night, you need to make sure drivers can see you. Make sure to establish eye contact before crossing the street to be certain that you are spotted by the driver.
Avoid distractions
Distracted walking is a major cause of pedestrian accidents, particularly in today’s digital age where people are constantly glued to their smartphones.
Texting, browsing reels, or listening to music with headphones can severely impair a pedestrian’s ability to stay alert and aware of their surroundings. Not paying attention to traffic signals, approaching vehicles, or obstacles on the road can lead to serious accidents.
Many often cross the street while wearing headphones and this is a big contributor to accidents. This refers mainly to younger generations who sometimes fail to even look both ways before crossing the street with headphones.
Be cautious at intersections
Intersections are among the most dangerous places for pedestrians. This is where you should always be cautious, even if you have the right of way.
Drivers may fail to yield to pedestrians, particularly at busy or poorly marked intersections. Before crossing, pedestrians should stop, look both ways and make sure that no vehicles are coming or turning. Even if traffic signals indicate it’s safe to cross, it’s important to double-check and ensure all vehicles have stopped.
Be extra cautious in poor weather conditions
Bad weather conditions, such as rain, snow, or fog, can create hazardous conditions for pedestrians. Slippery sidewalks, reduced visibility, and slower-moving vehicles increase the chances of accidents.
In particularly foggy conditions, pedestrians should avoid walking near busy streets, as visibility is drastically reduced for both drivers and pedestrians. It’s also advisable to carry an umbrella or wear weather-appropriate gear to ensure that you’re not caught off guard by changing weather conditions.
Also, the bad weather conditions often make drivers nervous and it also affects their driving. It’s important to have that in mind and be aware of the fact that drivers might not be fully focused on the road ahead.
The final word
Hopefully, you’ll now take your responsibilities as a pedestrian a bit more seriously. Pedestrian accidents are preventable, and the responsibility for avoiding them lies in part with pedestrians themselves.
Your task as a pedestrian is quite simple—follow the traffic signs, obey the traffic lights and be cautious of the drivers nearby. It’s also necessary to look both ways before crossing the street. It’s a very basic rule that many often disregard and take the risk of crossing the street without even taking a look around to inspect their surroundings.
Finally, drivers also need to watch out for pedestrians and adjust their speed accordingly, especially in very busy areas.
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