Car accidents involving pedestrians can be very destructive. The sheer impact of a heavyweight motorcycle, car or truck smashing into an individual on foot can result in lifelong scars, enduring injuries and even death. For that reason, it is important for everyone to know what drivers and pedestrians can do to prevent accidents.
What can pedestrians do to prevent accidents?
Pedestrians can make sure to always observe the “walk” signal at intersections. Cross when the “walk” signal first starts, so you’ll have plenty of time to make it to the other side of the road. Additionally, be aware that some drivers may not see the signal or may disregard the signal and cut across the crosswalk anyway. Even so, using crosswalks maximizes your probability of avoiding accidents.
What can drivers do to prevent accidents?
Drivers need to pay attention to what they’re doing. That includes avoiding the distracted driving that is all too common these days. Don’t text, watch a movie or look away from the road at all. An instant is all it takes to make you liable for an accident.
In addition, you need to yield the right of way to pedestrians who are crossing the road in the crosswalk. You also need to obey all traffic signals and signs, and always signal when turning.
As a driver, you need to be particularly careful to watch out for children. Small children may enter the road beneath your line of sight, and also they may not have the discretion to stay out of the path of cars. If you drive slower and are even more aware than ever when driving by parks, schools and other areas where children can be can help. By following this advice, you can prevent accidents involving pedestrians.
Source: FindLaw, “Pedestrian Accidents,” accessed Nov. 09, 2015