Pedestrian accidents are a common cause of personal injury in Florida. In fact, according to a study by Smart Growth America, Florida ranks number one in pedestrian fatalities from 2010 to 2019.
To avoid personal injury, you can do a few things as a walker. You cannot prevent every accident, but keep reading to learn how to make your walking routes a little safer for you and your family.
Stay visible
Do not dress in dark colors at night. A straightforward way to stay safe when you walk is to wear bright clothing easy to see by motorists. If you regularly walk in a high-traffic area at night, consider wearing reflective clothing for maximum visibility.
Do not assume cars will stop
As a pedestrian, you have the right of way to cross the street in designated areas. However, this is not a magic spell that prevents cars from hitting you. Always try to make eye contact with drivers when you want to cross at a crosswalk, and ensure they reach a complete stop before crossing.
Use designated crossing areas
Speaking of crosswalks, you should use them whenever possible. Trying to cross in the middle of a road is extremely dangerous, and not all motorists pay attention to pedestrians where they do not expect to see them. Plus, it is easier to cross at intersections where cars must stop for you to walk.
The best defenses against pedestrian accidents are precautionary habits. Never assume motorists see you or that they will follow traffic laws. Protect yourself from pedestrian accidents by practicing intelligent walking behavior.