Avoiding a Car Accident – Safety Tips for Pedestrians and Drivers
Written by Cooper & Friedman PLLC on September 24, 2015
A pedestrian can become the victim of a car accident at any point while walking on or near the road. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported in 2009 that more than 4,000 pedestrians were killed in motor vehicle crashes. With more than 59,000 injuries reported that year as well, this should be a significant concern for drivers and pedestrians alike.
Pedestrian-involved car accidents often affect the most vulnerable. Children and adults over the age of 65 represent almost half of all pedestrian related deaths. These accidents tend to stem from numerous common causes which include the following:
- Drivers operating a vehicle under the influence
- Drivers talking or texting on the phone
- Drivers who disobey traffic laws
- Reckless driving
Drivers have many responsibilities while operating a vehicle. And it is a driver’s duty to remain attentive to traffic, including pedestrians using the street.
Helpful Safety Tips for Pedestrians and Drivers
Today’s world is filled with many distractions and many drivers are becoming less observant. For pedestrians walking on the sidewalk or using a crosswalk, it’s necessary to follow traffic guidelines, while also practicing proactive alertness.
SAFETY TIPS FOR PEDESTRIANS
For pedestrians, here are a few tips you should follow:
- Look both ways before crossing the street.
- Always pay attention to stoplights and painted signs.
- Remain alert when crossing the street; make sure the cars are slowing down before crossing.
- Try to walk with others, especially if you are experiencing any type of impairment.
- Wear reflective or bright gear when walking at night.
- Always use the sidewalks if available.
Sometimes pedestrians make mistakes as well when using the street or sidewalks.
SAFETY TIPS FOR DRIVERS
For drivers, there are a few tips you should follow in order to avoid pedestrian-involved car accidents:
- Avoid distracted driving: using your phone, navigational tools and fidgeting with the radio.
- Check your mirrors multiple times.
- Yield to pedestrians crossing the street regardless of whether they are in a marked cross walk.
- Keep your windows free from debris and dirt.
- Drive at a safe speed limit.
- Always use your turning signal to indicate switching lanes or turning down a street.
Both drivers and pedestrians can become at fault for a car accident. If you are the victim of this type of accident, you may seek the help of a qualified attorney specializing in personal injury and car accidents.
With more than 4,000 pedestrians killed every year, there remains a very real need for driver and pedestrian safety. This large number represents one accident-related pedestrian death every 2 hours, and one pedestrian injury every 7 minutes, according to the Center for Disease Control (CDC).
As a driver or pedestrian, always pay attention to the road as well as traffic signals. There are things you can do to try to prevent these tragic accidents. Practicing safe driving or walking habits could potentially save a life.