How Can Pedestrians Avoid Accidents?

Pedestrian accidents are often unavoidable, especially when there is heavy traffic or poor visibility. However, there are steps drivers can take to minimize the risk of an accident. Drivers should slow down at crosswalks and yield to pedestrians. If they see someone crossing the street, they should wait until the light turns green before proceeding through the intersection. Drivers should also pay attention to what is happening around them, including other vehicles, bicycles, and pedestrians. When approaching intersections, drivers should stop and watch for any obstacles or pedestrians. Finally, drivers should always wear their seat belts.

The NTHSA reports that one of the main causes of pedestrian accidents is lack of visibility. If pedestrians cannot see you, they will not expect you to be there and may not have enough time to stop before hitting you. There are some things you can do to increase your visibility as a walker. First, wear bright clothing. Bright colors like red, yellow, orange, white, blue, green, etc., stand out against the background of darkness. Second, wear reflective materials. Reflective materials are easy to spot in low light conditions. Third, carry a flashlight. A flashlight allows you to see what is around you, even dark. Fourth, be aware of your surroundings. Be aware of cars coming toward you, especially if you are walking near a busy road. Look both ways before crossing streets. Fifth, stay alert. Pay attention to your surroundings.

Drivers are conditioned to see pedestrians crossing the road at the crosswalk. However, if they are not looking out for them, they may run right into them. Crosswalks usually contain markers or signs to warn drivers about pedestrians. If you try to cross the road anywhere other than the designated area, you may surprise a driver. They may have very little time to react, and they may hit you or cause a crash as they try to avoid you.

If you drive long distances, you need to keep an eye out for drivers who may not pay attention. Avoid driving when it is dark or raining because you won't be able to see other cars well enough to avoid them. Keep your speed down at night and during bad weather conditions. Driving fast increases your chance of getting into a collision. If you must drive at night, turn on your headlights and slow down. Don't drink alcohol while driving. Drinking and driving are dangerous and illegal.

Distracted driving is a major cause of accidents. You might be tempted to text or talk on your cell phone while driving. However, doing so could lead to a crash. Distracted drivers are eight times more likely to get into an accident than those who aren't distracted. Texting or talking on the phone is illegal in every state. Use hands-free technology like Bluetooth headsets or voice-activated devices instead.

It's important to note that distraction isn't always bad. For example, when driving through a tunnel, you need to focus on the road ahead and not pay attention to what's happening behind you. Distracted driving can cause accidents, injuries, and even death.

Alcohol and drug use can affect your ability to drive safely. If you drink while driving, you may not notice other vehicles around you. Your reaction time will slow down because you're distracted by the effects of alcohol. Alcohol affects your judgement and motor skills, making it harder for you to stay alert and respond quickly. If you get drunk, you may lose control of your vehicle and crash. You could even end up killing someone. Drug use can also distract you and reduce your reaction time. You may not notice other drivers around you, increasing your risk of crashing. You might hallucinate or become paranoid.

When driving, it can be easy to miss someone walking across the road because you're focused on other things. Blind people often have trouble hearing cars coming toward them. Electric vehicles can be harder to hear when compared to gasoline-powered ones. If you're driving an electric vehicle, try leaving extra space between yourself and others. This can help keep everyone safe.

When walking along sidewalks, try to avoid crossing streets at intersections. Use crosswalks to cross roads safely. Avoid walking under low bridges, especially those covered with ice. Walk facing traffic and watch out for trucks coming towards you. Do not assume a truck will stop for you. If you must cross a road, wait until the last second before stepping out in front of the vehicle.

If there is no sidewalk, walk as close to the edge as possible. Try to avoid walking in the middle of the street. Cross at an intersection when available. Avoid jaywalking. If there is no pedestrian crosswalk, cross at a signal light or at an intersection. It is safer to cross at a crosswalk even if there is no signal light since drivers may stop for red lights.

Depending on local laws, crosswalks are often painted yellow, red, or white. If you are crossing at an intersection, wait until all traffic has stopped before crossing, even if a car is just turning right onto your side of the road. Do not assume that other motorists will stop for you. Be prepared to run across the street if a car does not stop. Make eye contact with drivers when you step out into the street. Drivers may seem distracted, but they may still hit you if they do not see you.

When you go out at night, make sure you have a working flashlight and wear light-colored clothes. Make sure you're aware of your surroundings and avoid dark areas like parking lots and alleyways. If you've had alcohol or drugs before going out, you should stay away from cars and avoid driving. Don't walk around while you're intoxicated because you could get into an accident. Keep your eyes open for people, pets, and other hazards.

If you were injured in an auto accident, a personal injury lawyer in Harris County, Galveston County, Fort Bend County, Montgomery County, Brazoria County, Houston, Sugar Land, Missouri City, Stafford, Texas at Thornton Esquire Law Group, PLLC, could help you pursue money for your losses. Contact us today at www.thorntonesquirelawgroup.com for a free consultation.