There's nothing like going for a nice walk every day. Matter of fact, walking is a great low-impact activity that can help keep you healthy and stronger, especially when you do your daily 10,000 steps. However, while you may not be moving around in a car, you still have to worry about dangers on these streets. Here are some ways you can stay safe around cars and other vehicles.
Stay on the Sidewalk
The sidewalk is there for a reason. It's there so people can walk safely without becoming intermingled among the cars on the road. Of course, due to construction or a lack of development in some areas, a sidewalk may not be available. If you are in a situation where you must walk on the road, do your best to walk facing traffic, so you won't get sideswiped from behind. Always stay as alert as possible, and don't walk in the street while looking at your cell phone or being distracted as a car could come near you anytime.
Follow Traffic Rules
Even as a pedestrian, you should be aware of and follow traffic rules as they apply to you as well. So always pay attention to traffic signs and signals. If you must cross the crosswalk, press the walk sign and wait for the alert that shows The Walking symbol, letting you know it's safe to cross the street. However, if a car slows down at the crosswalk and yields to you, you may also be able to cross, depending on the road. Bear in mind that if you try to run it in front of a car while they are driving on a green light, you may be putting that driver in a situation where they may have to stop suddenly to avoid hitting you. If you are hit in that situation and get injured, the accident will be your fault, and you won't be liable for compensation.
Dress for Nighttime
Do you enjoy going for a walk or a run at night? If so, remember to wear light-colored or reflective clothing. Wearing this type of attire makes it easier for drivers to see you in the dark. You should also do your best to walk around well-lit areas and only cross at the crosswalk.
Look Both Ways
Always look both ways before crossing any street. Be extra cautious before crossing an intersection. Even if obeying the traffic signals, and most drivers are as well, it only takes one driver to run a red light or make an illegal turn. Their negligence can cause a devastating injury or fatality as you cross the street.
Stay Alert
Do you enjoy listening to music on your walks or runs? While it can make the time go by faster and make your walk more energetic, be mindful to keep your music low enough to hear everything around you. The last thing you want is to have distractions when crossing the road. In addition to looking both ways, stay aware of the sounds of any cars or trucks that may be coming nearby. Attempting to cross the street is not the time to have your head down on your cell phone sending a text message.
Being a pedestrian in a busy world with many cars and other vehicles whizzing by daily can be a challenge. That's why you must stay hyper-aware of your environment when around other vehicles. Unfortunately, accidents can still happen, especially when drivers aren't paying attention and forget to yield to a pedestrian. If you find yourself a victim of a situation, contact a local pedestrian accident lawyer to help get the compensation you deserve.
