Pedestrian Safety

Have you ever stood on the sidewalk, waiting to cross the road, unsure if the oncoming vehicles will stop for you?

Conversely, have you ever questioned the movements of a pedestrian from your place in the driver’s seat? Most people have experienced feelings of uncertainty both as a pedestrian and as a driver. Luckily there are things we can all do to make crossing the road a safer experience for everyone involved.

• Be alert and continually on the lookout for pedestrians.
• Follow posted speed limits at all times, especially in areas of heavy foot traffic.
• Be mindful of pedestrians when pulling into or out of driveways, or making a turn on the road.
• Always yield to pedestrians in a crosswalk.
• When approaching a crosswalk, reduce your speed and be prepared to stop. When stopping, allow enough room between you and the crosswalk so that other drivers can see the pedestrians you stopped for.
• Do not pass vehicles stopped for pedestrians in a crosswalk.
• Never drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol as they impair decision making abilities and reflexes.
• Do your best to eliminate distractions in the vehicle.

• Be visible. Wear lightly colored or reflective clothing when going for a walk and stay in well-lit areas, especially at night.
• Avoid distractions. To help you be more aware of what is happening around you, put away your phone
• and remove your headphones or earbuds before crossing the road. Know and follow all traffic rules, signs and signals.
• Never assume a driver will give you the right of way. If possible, make eye contact with drivers
• in stopped vehicles to ensure they see you before you cross in front of them.
• Use crosswalks when crossing the street. If one is unavailable, be sure to find the most well-lit spot to cross the road. Try not to cross from between parked cars where drivers will have a hard time seeing you.
• Stay on sidewalks whenever possible or keep to the farthest side of the road facing oncoming traffic so drivers have an easier time seeing you.
• Don’t walk along highways or other roadways where pedestrians are prohibited.

Did you know? Almost half of all traffic crashes resulting in pedestrian causalities involve alcohol consumption, and 34% of that total involve an intoxicated pedestrian. Alcohol impairs the decision-making skills and reflexes just as much on your feet as behind the wheel.