5 Things a Pedestrian Should Do to Avoid Accidents
Though it’s a quick and healthy way to move about, walking can be risky, particularly in regions of heavy traffic. Many times, the cause of pedestrian accidents is avoidable errors committed by drivers and pedestrians. Simple actions taken by pedestrians can greatly reduce their risk of being in an accident.
Although Las Vegas is well-known for its busy streets and active nightlife, this also increases the risks of pedestrian accidents. The city’s high traffic volume and common distractions make it a magnet for such events. See a Las Vegas pedestrian accident attorney to navigate through your legal options if you have been in an accident. Every pedestrian should pay attention to these five fundamental safety precautions.
1. Increase Your Visibility
Poor visibility is one of the main reasons behind pedestrian accidents. Pedestrians are significantly less likely to be seen by drivers in low light or darkness. To increase your visibility:
- Particularly if you intend to walk after dusk, wear reflective or brightly colored clothes.
- It is also important to carry a torch at night. Not only does it make vehicles notice you, but it also illuminates your path.
- Do not wear black clothes after dusk, since it blends almost completely into the shadows, making it difficult for drivers to see you.
2. Cross Streets Safely at Designated Crosswalks
Crosswalks serve a purpose; they give people a safe area to cross and notify vehicles to halt. Drivers are more likely to expect pedestrians crossing the street at a designated crosswalk. Further enhancing your safety are many crosswalks with flashing lights or signals.
- Steer clear of jaywalking between parked vehicles. Drivers might not have time to respond and are less ready for unanticipated crossing.
- Look both ways before crossing, even at crosswalks, and make eye contact with cars to be sure they see you.
3. Stay Off the Road Whenever Possible
Particularly in places lacking sidewalks, walking on the road increases the likelihood of an accident.
- Whenever possible, use sidewalks or pedestrian pathways rather than walk along the roadway.
- If a sidewalk is not accessible, walk on the shoulder and face oncoming traffic. Walking against traffic lets you see approaching vehicles and allows drivers to respond promptly.
- Keep as far to the side of the road as you can to reduce your chance of being hit.
4. Avoid Distractions
Distracted walking is also as risky as distracted driving. You can fail to notice approaching cars or other risks when you’re texting, calling, or using headphones. To stay safe:
- Keep your phone in your pocket and try not to use it while strolling close to a traffic junction.
- Use just one earphone or lower the volume if you enjoy listening to podcasts or music on your walk. This lets you stay aware of your surroundings and receive warning signals from other pedestrians or oncoming vehicles.
5. Do Not Walk Under Drug or Alcohol Influence
Walking close to traffic is quite dangerous since drugs and alcohol compromise coordination, reaction time, and judgment. Under the influence, pedestrians are more likely to make poor decisions, such as crossing in dangerous locations or underestimating the speed of an approaching vehicle.