Pedestrian Safety Tips To Avoid a Disastrous Accident
Mesa Personal Injury Attorneys Share Tips For Pedestrians To Stay Safe On The Roads
When you think of traffic accidents, you likely think of two vehicles colliding, or maybe even a motorcycle and a vehicle. But these are not the only possibilities. More than 6,000 pedestrians are killed every year in the United States, according to information from the Centers for Disease Control. That means that about one person is killed every hour and a half while they are walking on the streets.
Even more pedestrians are hit by vehicles but are not killed. They could be seriously injured or maybe even maimed for life. A Mesa personal injury lawyer can help those people get the compensation they deserve for their injuries to help them move forward, but all the money in the world can’t take back the damage that has been done. It’s important that you do whatever you can to avoid such an accident, whether you are the pedestrian or the person driving the vehicle.
Here are a few things you can do as a pedestrian to stay safe on the roads:
Use Designated Crosswalks & Pay Attention To The Pedestrian Crossing Light
You may think that you have the all-clear or that you have enough time to get across the street before the next car comes, so you just jot across wherever you see that you have an opening. The problem with that is that drivers are not expecting pedestrians to just pop out in the middle of the road. They will not be on alert, and they will be less likely to see you or to be able to stop in time.
It is important that you cross only in designated crosswalks. Wait for the crosswalk light to signal you to cross, as this light is also letting you know when the vehicles have been signaled to stop.
Even if there is no light, there is signage to let vehicles know that pedestrians are crossing at that point and to be alert. If no such crosswalk is available, always cross in places where you will be most visible, such as at intersections.
Stay Alert While Walking Or Driving
Being distracted puts you in danger whether you are driving or walking. If you are listening to music, talking on the phone, or texting, you are putting yourself in danger. You may not be able to hear a car coming. You may not notice that the light has changed. You may not see that bicyclist driving straight toward you.
Be sure that you always stay alert when you are walking on the road, even if you are on a sidewalk. You need all your senses working for you to alert you of any oncoming danger.
Be Sure You Are Visible: Wear Hi-Vis Clothes
Drivers are doing their best to be alert and to avoid obstacles on the road. No one wants to hit a pedestrian. However, car accidents can still happen because drivers simply do not see pedestrians. This is especially a risk when it is getting dark or when it’s rainy or cloudy outside.
You can improve your visibility by wearing brightly colored clothes. Wear reflective shoes or a vest if you are walking in low-light conditions. Consider wearing a helmet with a light on it. Walk away from the tree line. Do whatever you can to make sure drivers can see you.
Keep Your Kids Safe While Crossing The Road
Children are unpredictable in any situation. But that’s especially dangerous when there are automobiles involved. If you are walking with kids, you need to keep a close eye on them. Always hold hands if you can. Make sure they are wearing brightly colored clothes for visibility. Anticipate their movements as much as possible.
You can prepare kids for road safety by talking to them about the rules for your walk. You can also model good behavior for them by always following the rules you ask them to follow.
The more you can do to protect yourself on the roads, the lower your likelihood of getting injured while you are out for a jog or a casual stroll. However, even with all the precautions, your risk will never be zero. If you are walking and are hit by a vehicle, you are likely to be seriously injured. It’s important that you call the best personal injury lawyer you can find to help you get the compensation you deserve for your medical care and more.
Contact Professional Pedestrian Accident Attorneys In Mesa!
Injury Lawyers Mesa are ready to help you if you have been injured in a pedestrian accident, or if someone you loved was killed after being hit by a vehicle. Our experienced personal injury lawyers will fight to get you the maximum compensation for all that you have suffered, including lost wages, medical expenses, and personal pain. Contact us in Mesa today to schedule a consultation with a personal injury attorney and learn more about your legal options.
1731 West Baseline Road Suite #103
Mesa, AZ 85202
Tel: 602-600-6001
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Website: injurylawyersmesa.com