Walking is healthy, but you must know the pedestrian safety guidelines. This is especially true if you are walking in an area without sidewalks or walkways that separate you from the traffic. You should always follow road safety standards and other advice to keep safe when walking in public places. If you ever get into a pedestrian accident, contact an attorney immediately and hold negligent parties accountable.
While automobiles must respect traffic lights and be aware of pedestrians on the road, pedestrians must also be cautious to walk safely and be visible. Some things, however, are beyond our control as pedestrians: fast vehicles, inattentive drivers, cars running red lights, and so on. In an ideal world, all vehicle drivers would follow traffic lights, and no tragic accidents would occur. Although our efforts as pedestrians may not prevent certain motor vehicle accidents, it is in our best interests to remain attentive at all times.
Tips to Stay Safe
Follow these road regulations to keep safe when walking.
- Walk facing traffic
If there is no sidewalk and you must walk on the road, select the side that faces incoming traffic. This is the left side of the road in North America. Walking against traffic provides you the best opportunity to see vehicles approaching from behind and taking evasive action if necessary. This may be perplexing because the reverse rule applies to bikers. They should ride in the same direction as traffic.
- Cross the road safely.
Your mother was correct: you should look both ways before crossing any street. Cross only when the pedestrian crossing light is illuminated at controlled intersections. Even so, vehicles and bicyclists may have a green light to turn (or maybe lawfully turn right on red) and will not expect you to be in the crosswalk. Make eye contact with any oncoming drivers. Give them a friendly wave. Make certain they notice you. When a car collides with a walker, the walker can only lose. It may be tempting to just jaywalk, but this is dangerous and can also result in a penalty.
- Walk in single-file
You should walk in single file unless you are on a sidewalk isolated from the road or in a broad bike/pedestrian lane. This is especially crucial on a route with many curves and when traffic has only a fraction of a second to see you before striking you. Walking together can also distract you from chats, causing you to miss traffic or road signs.
Consult an Attorney
If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident, know that you have limited time to file a claim. Talk to an attorney as soon as possible and receive the compensation you deserve.
