If you are of a certain age you will remember those Smoky the Bear commercials where Smoky would say, “Only YOU can prevent forest fires.” Well, we’ll take our cues from Smoky and remind you that only you can prevent pedestrian accidents. We’ll share some tips that you can follow to stay safe when you are walking around town. You may look at these tips and think that they are just common sense, and you’d be right. The problem is, when people are walking whether on sidewalks in the city or in a sleepy suburban neighborhood they might forget their common sense as they are not paying attention to their surroundings. You might also be a driver, and pedestrian safety is also a responsibility of drivers. Since no driver was ever killed when their car was struck by a pedestrian, motorists must be alert and keep an eye out for pedestrians who might not be keeping an eye out for drivers.

Pedestrians most at risk for accidents

According to National Highway Safety Administration reports, each year nearly 5,000 pedestrians die in motor vehicle accidents, and approximately 76,000 suffered injured when hit by a car or truck. Other pedestrian accidents don’t even involve a vehicle, but can occur due to crumbling pavement, poorly maintained walkways and roadways and other hazards.

Accident statistics from the CDC consistently show that adults aged 65 and older, and children between the ages of five and 15, are the ones most at risk for pedestrian crashes with motor vehicles. An additional risk factor includes pedestrians or drivers who were alcohol impaired. The most pedestrian deaths occurred at night in urban areas at non-intersection locations. (So try to avoid jaywalking in the city at night.)

Safety tips for pedestrians

• Be clearly visible. Wear reflective clothing or carry a flashlight
• Always cross the street at an intersection or a designated crosswalk and try to make eye contact with the driver before you make your way across the street
• Walk on the sidewalk when one is available
• If you must walk along the side of the road with no sidewalk stay on the shoulder and walk facing the traffic.
• Do not walk with your head down looking at your mobile phone

Safety tips for drivers

• Keep an eye out for pedestrians
• Pedestrians have the right of way when they are in a crosswalk
• Drive with caution in residential areas
• Don’t drink and drive

The bottom line is to remember to exercise due caution whether you are walking or driving especially at night or in bad weather. With increased awareness we can all prevent pedestrian accidents.

If you would like more information about what to do if you have been involved in a pedestrian accident, you can contact the personal injury attorneys at Banks and Jones to schedule a consultation today.