As the saying goes, everyone is a pedestrian. Even if you do not regularly walk to work, school or the grocery store, you are a pedestrian when you walk through the parking lot, on the sidewalk at your office, near a shopping center or even down the street to get your mail. The streets can be dangerous places for pedestrians.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported a staggering 672 pedestrian fatalities in Texas in just one year. How can you keep yourself safe when you are walking near traffic? The following tips can help:
- Face oncoming traffic when you walk, and stay on the sidewalk whenever possible. If you must walk on the shoulder, keep to the far side away from approaching vehicles.
- Avoid wearing dark colors at night. Instead, wear light-colored clothing and carry a flashlight. Consider putting reflective tape on your jacket or wear a reflective vest.
- Remove distractions when you are walking. Rather than staring at text messages, put your phone in your pocket and keep an eye on surrounding traffic.
- Cross the street at an intersection or marked crosswalk. The newer crossings that have flashing lights to alert drivers are ideal. In the absence of a crosswalk, watch for traffic, and only cross when you are sure it is safe. Do not assume traffic will stop for you when you have the green light - cross only after vehicles have come to a stop.
It is important that you teach these pedestrian safety tips to your children. Kids are known to act impulsively and may not consider common dangers when walking or playing near a road. You cannot always prevent every accident, but when you are vigilant, understand the dangers and follow safety rules, you may decrease your risks when you are on foot.
No Comments
Leave a comment