Here are some great tips for improved pedestrian safety for both pedestrians and drivers.
When you are a pedestrian:
Be Visible
Make sure you’re visible to drivers and try to make eye contact with the driver if you can.
Wear lightly colored or reflective clothing.
Stay in well-lit areas, especially when you cross the street.
Stay Alert – Avoid Distractions
Put down your phone. Devices can distract you from paying attention to drivers and traffic.
Don’t wear headphones. Your ears will help you identify issues ahead of time.
Know and Follow the Rules
Follow the traffic rules, signs and signals. Be aware of the rules for drivers as well. This will help you to anticipate their moves ahead of time, which will help increase your safety.
Walk in Safe Places
Use crosswalks when crossing the street. If for some reason a crosswalk is unavailable, find the most well-lit spot on the road to cross and wait for a long enough gap in traffic to make it safely across the street.
Stay on sidewalks whenever possible. If a sidewalk is not available, be sure to walk on the far side of the road facing traffic. This will help increase your visibility to drivers.
Avoid walking along highways or other roadways where pedestrians are prohibited.
Avoid Alcohol Consumption
Avoid alcohol consumption as it can hinder your coordination and decision making.
When you are in a car:
Be Alert
Look out for pedestrians at all times.
Make sure your lights are on and you use your signals properly, especially in night time hours or in bad weather.
Be mindful of pedestrians when pulling into and out of driveways, especially if you are backing up.
Crosswalks
Always yield to pedestrians in a crosswalk.
When approaching a crosswalk, make sure to reduce your speed.
When you are stopped at a crosswalk, make sure there is enough space for a pedestrian to easily cross the street.
Do not pass vehicles stopped at a crosswalk.
Do Not Drive Under the Influence
Getting behind the wheel while impaired puts everyone in danger.
