Pedestrian walking on the street

Keeping Pedestrians Safe

By David Hammond
Partner

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that, in 2020 alone, 6,516 pedestrians were killed in traffic crashes. Clearly, pedestrians are at risk on U.S. roads. As such, we should all make a concerted effort to do what we can to keep pedestrians safe. Motorists and pedestrians alike can make adjustments in their behaviors to help reduce the number of pedestrian accidents that occur each year. Let’s take a look at some of the ways we can help keep pedestrians safe.

Keeping Pedestrians Safe

One of the best ways that drivers and pedestrians can help keep pedestrians safe on the roads is by eliminating distractions. In recent years, the dangers of distracted driving have become a major talking point on the national stage. With our constant dependency on and use of our phones, most states have even passed legislation making it illegal to use a handheld device while driving. Unfortunately, distracted driving persists and it is one of the most common causes of pedestrian accidents. Drivers, put away your phones, wait to eat until you get home, give the road your full attention. You may just save a life.

Pedestrians, however, are also not immune to putting themselves in danger because of being distracted. If you look around on sidewalks everywhere, you will likely see pedestrians glued to their phone screen. They may be texting, checking email, or selecting some music to listen to on their walk. Regardless, pedestrians are as distracted as ever. Some remain distracted even when crossing roads. You can easily see how this would be dangerous. Pedestrians, help keep yourself injury and accident free. Pay attention to your surroundings.

Accounting for inclement weather conditions can also help keep pedestrians safe. Of course, best practice is to avoid walking or driving when rain, sleet, snow, and other dangerous weather patterns strike. Sometimes, however, this is not always possible. When inclement weather hits, visibility can be greatly impacted as can roadway traction. Icy or wet conditions can greatly increase the distance necessary for a car to come to a safe and complete stop or avoid a roadway hazard. These conditions can also increase the chances of a person losing control over their vehicle. In the event of rain or snow, pedestrians and drivers should remain extra vigilant. Pay attention to your surroundings. Vehicles, in particular, should slow their speeds.

Pedestrians can also help keep themselves safe by wearing bright and reflective clothing, especially at night. It is best, however, to avoid walking at night altogether. After all, visibility is lower at night. It is also more likely to be the victim of someone driving under the influence when you are out and about at night. If you are out walking at night, however, make sure your clothing is visible. Stick to well-lit areas and use crosswalks whenever available. Never assume that a vehicle sees you.

Personal Injury Attorneys

Pedestrian accidents can often involve devastating injuries. If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident, reach out to the trusted personal injury team at CDH Law. Contact us today.

About the Author
David is a former military prosecutor and defense lawyer with over a decade of experience fighting for service members and their families. He served nine years and two combat tours as an active duty US Army officer, then joined the Reserves and settled down in Syracuse to be near family. Now representing people across Central New York charged with serious felonies, misdemeanors, DWIs, and traffic offenses, he puts the same level of commitment into his civilian law practice. If you have any questions regarding this article, you can contact David here.