Studies of collisions involving vehicle and pedestrians have shown that in many instances the driver was distracted and not paying attention to the roadway or was speeding. However, in some accidents the pedestrian was at fault-- the two most common reasons were crossing the street in the middle of the block and crossing when a signal indicted DON’T WALK. Regardless of who was at fault for causing the collision, the pedestrian is often “the loser” due to the severe injuries sustained. Below are safety tips that ALL PEDESTRIANS should follow.
Cross at the Crosswalk
Always use the crosswalk if there is one. Don't cross in the middle of the street. The lines in the crosswalk help remind drivers to watch out for pedestrians.
Stay Focused
Put cell phones and other distractions away—focus on the road.
Stay Alert
Stop before you start to cross the street. Look to the left, right, and left again before you cross. Continue to watch cars while you are crossing, especially for vehicles turning right on a red light. Avoid being in a driver's blind spot.
Make Visual Contact
Make eye contact with the driver before you cross in front of a car. Sometimes drivers don't see you. Don't assume drivers will stop for you. Making visual contact with drivers will help assure they have seen you. Look before and while you cross.
Keep Your Eyes on the Road
Be extra cautious on wide streets where traffic moves faster. Watch for turning vehicles. Watch out for cars backing out of parking spaces and driveways.
Use Sidewalks
Use sidewalks where provided. If there are no sidewalks, walk against traffic so that you can see oncoming vehicles.
Be Seen
At night wear light colors or reflective clothing and carry a flashlight.
Myths and Facts about Pedestrian Safety
A green light means it is safe to cross. A green light means you should look for traffic and only cross if it's safe. Be sure to keep looking for cars coming or turning while you are crossing.
You are safe in a crosswalk. Sometimes drivers make mistakes. Always make sure it is safe to cross, even at a crosswalk.
If you see the driver, the driver sees you. The driver may not see you. Make sure the driver sees you and stops before you cross in front of the car. Try to make eye contact with the driver.
The driver will always stop if you are in a crosswalk or at a green light. The driver may not see you. The driver's view may be blocked. The driver may go through a red light. The driver may turn and not look for pedestrians.
White clothes at night make it easy for drivers to see you. White clothes can be hard to see too. Carry a flashlight. Wear reflective clothing. Walk facing oncoming traffic.