As a driver, you are likely to encounter pedestrians at any time and at any
place. In order to help you keep a more watchful eye out, we’ve compiled a great
list of safety tips for both pedestrians and drivers in order to help prevent
crashes from occurring.
Tips for Drivers
• Be aware of the fact
that you can and will encounter pedestrians at any time and at any place.
• Unfortunately, pedestrians can, at times, be very hard to see. They
are usually the hardest to spot during bad weather or at night. If you can’t see
clearly for any reason, make sure you keep a closer look out and reduce your
speed.
• Drive slowly as you are beginning to enter a crosswalk area. Be
prepared to make sudden stops if necessary.
• If pedestrians are in the
crosswalk, come to a complete stop. In addition, try to stop far back enough for
other drivers in other lanes to be able to easily spot the pedestrians as well
so they can also come to a stop.
• If another vehicle has stopped for
pedestrians, do not attempt to overtake or pass them.
• Typically, when
you are waiting to turn, you are usually waiting for some sort of “gap” in
traffic. Beware of the fact that while you are waiting for the “gap”,
pedestrians might have moved into your intended path.
• When entering a
school zone or neighborhood, be especially attentive for signs of
children.
Tips for Pedestrians
• As a pedestrian you should do
your best to be predictable. Never walk onto freeways or restricted zones.
Always use sidewalks where they are provided and only cross or enter streets
where it is legal for you to do so.
• If there are no sidewalks available
to walk on, walk while facing road traffic since it is typically much safer to
do so.
• Always be easily visible. Dress in colors that stand out or wear
retro-reflective material. For dark areas, consider carrying a
flashlight.
• While most drivers are good drivers, never count on them
always paying attention. Keep a watchful eye out and make it a point to make eye
contact with them to be sure that they see you.
• Alcohol and drugs can
also impair your ability to walk home safely, so drink in moderation and don’t
do drugs.
• If attempting to cross multiple lanes or high speed streets,
use extreme caution.
If you or someone you know has suffered from some
form of a pedestrian accident, the
personal injury lawyers of Sweeney,
Sweeney & Sweeney can help. Sweeney Attorneys is your number one choice when
it comes to a
pedestrian
accident lawyer Riverside County. Get in touch with a pedestrian accident
attorney Riverside County today!