Pedestrians & Drivers: Don’t Ignore These Safety Tips

When it comes to car and pedestrian safety, many of us forget that those who are the most vulnerable are also responsible for their safety. Surely, drivers and motorcyclists should always go above and beyond to avoid accidents that could expose pedestrians to serious personal injury risks. But if pedestrians are able to avoid certain risky situations, many accidents can be avoided.

According to the California Highway Patrol, the number of deadly or serious auto accidents involving pedestrians is increasing. Last Sunday, a 37-year-old died as a result of the injuries she sustained in an accident involving a car. She was a pedestrian. While this accident impacted only one individual, several other auto crashes kill pedestrians in California regularly. In order to help pedestrians to stay safe while navigating the sidewalks, CHP decided to release a list of safety tips that will help drivers and pedestrians to avoid serious accidents.

Pedestrians who are serious about safety should make sure they understand that crossing the street should always entail making sure that they are doing so correctly. Paying attention to street lights, road signs, and crossing only on crosswalks may help you to avoid accidents.

Also, keep an eye on vehicles on the road at all times. If you’re going to be on the road at night time, make sure to carry a flashlight and have reflective, or light-colored clothing on. If the road doesn’t have a sidewalk, walk facing the traffic always.

Experts also urge you to avoid distracted driving by focusing on the road ahead and putting your phone in your pocket. Distractions are often linked to serious and even deadly pedestrians accidents.

If you’re a driver, you too must follow important safety steps to avoid deadly crashes.

Make sure you always obey speed limits and road rules. Put your phone down the minute you sit behind the wheel and avoid handling or using too many electronics or talking to passengers while operating your vehicle.

Remember that pedestrians are vulnerable. Stay prepared to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks whether they are marked or not. And if you see a vehicle stopped, make sure it hasn’t stopped for pedestrians before passing it. You could hit a pedestrian by passing a car that stopped before a crosswalk.

For more tips on how to avoid accidents, follow this link.