We’re all pedestrians at some point. This means we all learn the same basic rules for crossing the street. Look both ways, obey traffic signals, and stay inside the crosswalk. Technology and busier lifestyles have created new distractions. As a result, navigating intersections requires a new level of alertness. This is especially true when you’re on foot.
In fact, traffic accidents involving pedestrians are startlingly common. In 2015, pedestrian fatalities hit a seven-year high. In the first six months of the year, 2,368 people were killed. This number increased compared with 2,232 during the same period in 2014. This data is according to the Governors Highway Safety Association. If you disregard basic rules of the road even briefly in high-traffic areas, you can become vulnerable to accidents.
Drivers must look out for pedestrians and avoid distractions while driving. These reminders for pedestrians could help you stay safe even when you’re not behind the wheel.
Stop Strolling and Texting
We often hear how cell phone use impairs drivers. However, distracted use of smartphones by pedestrians causes accidents too. In 2010, about 1,500 pedestrians faced emergency room accidents. These accidents were related to using their cell phones, according to a study from the Ohio State University. What’s more, when people used their cell phones while walking, they were 61 percent more likely to veer off course. This means outside the safe zone of the crosswalk. They were also 13 percent more likely to overshoot a target. This target was placed by researchers a few meters in front of them on the floor. This target could easily have been a curb or stairway, finds one study. Put away your phone while walking, especially when crossing an intersection.
Walk in the Light
Most pedestrian traffic deaths occur in urban areas. They usually happen in non-intersection locations and at night, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. If you must walk at night, one solution is to amplify your presence. This includes wearing light-colored clothing and using reflective gear. You can also repurpose a smartphone as a flashlight. These steps are suggested by Doug Hecox of the Federal Highway Administration. “Brightly colored clothing is helpful. Clothing with reflective materials can help you stay visible to drivers. You can also use clip-on light beacons, which are widely available,” says Hecox.
Stay in the Safe Zones
Sidewalks are safest. However, there are many areas without sidewalks. Staying out of the roadway is a great rule of thumb for pedestrians. It isn’t always possible. Therefore, pedestrians should be mindful of their surroundings. They need to look out for drivers who may not see them. Darting out across the street from between cars is also unwise,” says Hecox.
In some cases, taking a safe route is the best option. This is true when walking with school-age children. Safe paths have well-maintained infrastructure, designated walking lanes, good lighting, and reduced speed limits. Schools and local traffic organizations often map out safe routes. There are even apps that help pedestrians of all ages determine the best walking routes. Bottom line: Countless accidents occur when pedestrians walk in un-designated areas. Jaywalking causes accidents as well. Problems arise when pedestrians cross against the flow of traffic and use unsafe areas. Given the uptick in accidents in recent years, it’s risky to assume that drivers will always stop. More pedestrians have died on roads or at intersections where there were no crosswalks.
No matter how you get to your destination, staying mindful is a must. “Pedestrians and drivers each have a responsibility to each other to be actively looking out for each other,” says Hecox.
“Personal safety is the responsibility of everyone.”
