Each year, over 38,000 people lose their lives in road accidents in the United States. In fact, traffic accidents are the number one killer in the country for people aged between 1-54. Pedestrians make up a significant portion of the people who perish on US roadways. In 2020, 6,721 pedestrians perished in traffic accidents. That translated to a pedestrian fatality rate of 2.3 per billion vehicle miles traveled (VMT). A pedestrian accident is often catastrophic and can involve severe injuries and deaths.

Besides those who lost their lives in pedestrian accidents, tens of thousands were injured, with many of these injuries resulting in permanent disability. These figures are enough to make anyone worried, given that everyone is a pedestrian at some point during the day.

To help you stay safer as a pedestrian this year, we’ve prepared nine simple safety tips to keep in mind whenever using the road.

Use Walkways and Sidewalks

A large number of pedestrians who die in traffic accidents are people walking along the roadway. One way the authorities try to prevent these accidents is by providing walkways that are separated from the road lanes. Using these walkways reduces pedestrian accidents on the road by 88 percent.

Many roads also have sidewalks that are separated from the roadway. This is an even better accommodation option for pedestrians. In fact, roads without sidewalks are twice as likely to have pedestrian accidents as those with sidewalks on either side of the street.

Of course, the presence of a walkway or sidewalk will do you little good if you don’t use it. Ultimately, it’s your responsibility to use these provided accommodations to stay safe on the road.

Walk Facing Traffic

Sometimes, there’s no sidewalk, and you have to walk on the side of the road. In such cases, choosing the side where you’re facing oncoming traffic can help prevent a pedestrian accident. In the US, this refers to the left side of the road.

When you walk opposite traffic, it’s easier to see the vehicles approaching nearest to you. This way, it’s much easier to take evasive action if need be.

Know How to Cross Safely

You’ve always heard that you should always look both ways before you cross a street. It’s a simple rule that can save your life on the road.

When approaching a controlled intersection, don’t cross before the pedestrian crossing light comes on. Even then, take a moment to see whether there are any bikers or drivers legally turning right on red before you start to cross the road.

Try to make eye contact with drivers who’re turning and wave to them. Be sure they see you before you cross the road.

Stay Aware of Runners and Bikes

Many times, you’ll be sharing the road with runners and bikes, so it helps to stay aware of them. Any cyclist approaching you from behind should alert you by using a bike bell. You need to listen to these alerts and move to the side of the path to let them pass safely.

Runners also need to call out so you can allow them to pass safely.

Remember, any collisions with these road users, especially bicyclists, can result in head injuries and broken bones. As a pedestrian, chances are you’ll get hurt more in the process, given you aren’t wearing a helmet.

Stay Visible

Another simple way to avert a traffic accident is to be as visible as possible. Wearing bright colors is a great choice if you know you’ll be walking during the daytime.

At night, pedestrians who wear light-colored clothes or reflective clothing are easily visible to other road users. Note that most drivers don’t expect walkers out after dark, so it’s only smart to make it easy for them to see you.

Remain cautious at twilight and dawn. That’s because drivers and bikers have limited visibility. Sometimes, drivers have the rising or setting sun shining directly in their eyes, which further compromises their visibility.

Avoid Distracted Walking

You’ve probably already heard that distracted driving can quickly cause an auto accident. But did you know distracted walking is almost as dangerous as it gets? Texting, chatting, or playing games on your phone while walking along the road is a dangerous habit.

A distracted pedestrian is hardly aware of their environment. They’re not likely to spot traffic dangers or recognize tripping hazards. Even potential criminals see these pedestrians as easy targets.

Avoid distracted walking at all costs. If you need to use your phone, find a safe place and stop until you complete your phone tasks. Once through, put your phone in your pocket before resuming your walk.

Know What to Do After a Pedestrian Accident

In the unfortunate event that you’ve been involved in a pedestrian accident and are still conscious, what you do next can save your life. If you can, move to a safe place away from the road, and call the police right away to report the accident.

Take pictures of your injuries, the accident scene, and the vehicle involved. If there are any witnesses, write down their names and mobile phone numbers. Once you’ve gotten this information, seek medical attention right away.

You’ll also want to talk to an auto accident lawyer. The best lawyer will fight for you and win you the compensation you deserve for harm suffered in the accident.

Do Your Part in Preventing Pedestrian Accidents

Every time you step out, you have an opportunity to practice pedestrian safety. The fact is that pedestrian accidents are rampant, and it’s your responsibility to keep yourself safe until you reach your destination. Practice the precautions we’ve outlined in this guide to stay safe whenever and wherever you walk.

Were you or your loved one involved in a pedestrian accident? Get in touch with us today to learn how our experienced attorneys can help you.