Walking is the oldest form of transportation! In the midst of rising gas prices, lack of exercise, and minimal time out in the fresh air, walking comes with many benefits. Pedestrians, however, must remain vigilant out there. When you are a pedestrian, there are no airbags. There is no strong metal structure surrounding you like there is in a car. Should you be hit by a vehicle, there is a high risk that you will sustain a serious injury that could even prove fatal. So, pedestrians, stay safe out there. Here are some tips on how to do just that.
Pedestrian Safety Tips
As a pedestrian, visibility is an asset you cannot afford to do without. You are already much smaller than so many other things drivers have to pay attention to. You are less visible than other vehicles, motorcycles, bicycles, and most inanimate objects a driver will be trying to pay attention to. Making yourself as visible as possible to the driver will help you stay safe. This means you should do things such as cross in well-marked crosswalks. In recent years, many crosswalks have added flashing lights in a further attempt to bring driver awareness to a crossing pedestrian.
Furthermore, pedestrians should consider wearing bright clothing. This is especially important if you are walking at night. While walking at night is one of the most dangerous times to be a pedestrian due to low visibility, among other factors, bright clothing can help reduce some of the danger involved. Reflective clothing may be even better at increasing visibility. Furthermore, pedestrians should never make the assumption that a vehicle sees them. Remaining cautious, even in crosswalks, could save your life or save you from serious injury.
Pedestrians should also remain attentive to their surroundings. It can be so easy to get distracted. Our phones alone draw us into our own world with our heads down and our attention elsewhere. In the meantime, we are unaware of what is going on around us and this is dangerous. When pedestrians are not paying attention, the risk of injury exponentially increases. Hazards on the sidewalk are not minded. Oncoming vehicles are not anticipated. Other pedestrians and bike riders zoom by perilously close. Pedestrians, remain aware of your surroundings. It is one of the best ways for you to stay as safe as possible out there.
Philadelphia Personal Injury Attorneys
With Philadelphia being such a big city, we have our fair share of pedestrians. Stay safe out there in the hustle and bustle of city life. Being vigilant and remaining aware of your surroundings are some of the surest bets to staying safe as a pedestrian. If you have been involved in a pedestrian accident, it is likely that you have sustained serious injuries. Let the team of trusted personal injury attorneys at Cooper, Schall & Levy take on the legal burden for you so you can focus on recovering your health. We fight the big insurance companies to get you the monetary compensation you deserve. Contact us today.
