Although we may choose different means of transportation, we should all arrive to our destinations safely. Unfortunately, pedestrians accounted for 4,743 deaths in 2012, making them one of the few groups of road users to experience an increase in fatalities. This means that on average, one pedestrian was killed every two hours or injured every seven minutes in traffic-related crashes. The Department of Transportation values safety above anything else. This is why the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) are joining forces to raise awareness on the traffic dangers to pedestrians. To help raise awareness, the NHTSA and FHWA are working to provide leadership, expertise, and resources to communities throughout the United States to decrease the growing number of pedestrian-related crashes.
Learn More on the National Highway Safety Administration Website.
Safety Tips for Pedestrians and Drivers
Safety is a shared responsibility; meaning that both pedestrians and drivers can make an effort to make sure everyone is safe. We all need to do our part, so here are some helpful safety tips from the U.S. Department of Transportation in conjunction with NHTSA and the FHWA that you can start implementing today.
Tips For Pedestrians
- Obey the law. Just as when you are driving, following the rules of the road and traffic signals is just as important when you are walking.
- Walk on sidewalks. If they are available, always opt to walk on the sidewalk. If not, walk facing traffic and keep as far of a distance as you can.
- Be alert. It is easy to be distracted by your phone or other electronics, but these devices take your eyes off of the road, potentially leading to an accident.
- Cross streets at crosswalks. Drivers do not anticipate drivers crossing the street in random locations, so always use a crosswalk.
- Be visible. Brightly colored clothing and reflective materials can help draw attention to you and decrease the risk of an accident.
Tips For Drivers
- Watch for pedestrians. This is obvious, but watch for pedestrians at all times. Pedestrians may be where you do not expect them.
- Slow down at crosswalks. Slow down and be prepared to stop when turning at or entering a crosswalk.
- Yield to pedestrians. Always yield to pedestrians in crosswalks and give them enough room to safely pass through.
- Follow slower speed limits. Schools zones and neighborhoods typically have slower speed limits because they are heavily populated.
- Never pass vehicles in a crosswalk. There is always a chance that a pedestrian is crossing, although you can’t see them.
Together, we can all work to decrease the amount of pedestrian fatalities. However, when an accident does happen, it is important to have the appropriate legal representation on your side. The legal team at Laporte, Mulligan & Werner-Watkins has been handling injury and death claims for almost four decades and can provide assistance if you or your loved one has been injured in a pedestrian-related accident. We work to have your medical bills paid promptly and can often garner wage benefits and more. If you or your loved one has been injured, do not hesitate to call us for a free consultation.