The warmer weather is close, which means that pedestrians are going to start hitting the sidewalks and crosswalks all around Atlanta. While drivers have a duty to follow the laws pertaining to these pedestrians, it is imperative that the pedestrians take steps to keep themselves safe.
First, be sure that you wear clothing that enables you to be seen. This is especially important at night when it is hard to see someone who is wearing dark clothing. If possible, wear bright clothing and use reflector strips that make it easier for drivers to see you.
Second, walk on the sidewalks and cross the street in crosswalks. It is imperative that you are watchful for vehicles even when you have the right of way. It is much easier to wait a few seconds for a vehicle to pass than it would be for you to have to work through healing from being struck by a car.
You should obey all traffic laws when you are walking. This means paying attention to the walk and don’t walk signs when you are going to cross through a crosswalk. You shouldn’t try to cross the street unless you are in a crosswalk or intersection, even if it means you have to walk a bit more to reach a suitable place to cross.
If you are being careful, there is still a chance that you could be struck by a vehicle. You might opt to seek compensation for the injuries you suffered. This is one step toward recovering the money that you are out of because of the accident. The damages can include the wages you weren’t able to earn and the cost of medical care.
Source: Pedestrian and Bicycle Information Center, “Safety Tips for Pedestrians,” accessed Feb. 23, 2017