Pedestrian accidents are devastating events that can result in severe injuries or even death. It’s essential to understand how to prevent these accidents, whether you’re a driver or a pedestrian. First, you need to know the most common causes of pedestrian accidents.
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of pedestrian accidents. Drivers who are texting, talking on the phone, or using their phones for other purposes are more likely to hit a pedestrian.
Speeding
Another significant cause of pedestrian accidents is speeding. Drivers who are driving too fast are less likely to see a pedestrian crossing the street.
Failing to Yield
Failing to yield to pedestrians is also a common cause of pedestrian accidents. Drivers must yield to pedestrians at crosswalks and intersections.
Poor Visibility
Poor visibility is another cause of pedestrian accidents, especially during the night or in bad weather conditions.
Driving Under The Influence
Intoxicated driving or walking is also a significant cause of pedestrian accidents. Never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Tips for Drivers to Prevent Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrian accidents are a growing concern, and every year, thousands of people are injured or killed in such accidents. Some of the ways drivers can help prevent pedestrian accidents include the following:
Stay focused and avoid distractions: As a driver, it’s important to stay focused on the road and avoid distracting activities like texting, eating, or applying makeup. Always keep your hands on the wheel and your eyes on the road.
Adhere to speed limits and traffic regulations: Speed limits and traffic regulations are set to ensure the safety of pedestrians and drivers on the road. It is crucial to follow them to avoid any accidents. Stay alert and always look out for pedestrians, especially in residential areas or schools.
Be extra cautious at intersections and crosswalks: Intersections and crosswalks are high-risk areas for pedestrian accidents. Drivers should stop at intersections and crosswalks, look both ways, and ensure that there are no pedestrians crossing before driving forward.
Use proper lighting and signals: It is essential to use proper lighting and signals when driving in low light conditions. Bright headlights and taillights make it easy for pedestrians to see the car coming. It’s also crucial to signal when turning to let pedestrians know the direction the car is headed.
Never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is illegal and dangerous and could lead to severe legal consequences and accidents. If you have been drinking or using drugs, call a friend or use a ride-hailing app to get home safely.
Tips for Pedestrians to Prevent Pedestrian Accidents
If you’re a pedestrian, it’s important to do everything you can to stay safe. Consider the following tips:
Stay visible and use crosswalks
As a pedestrian, it’s important to ensure that drivers can see you. Wear bright or reflective clothing, especially at night. When crossing the road, always use designated crosswalks. Avoid crossing in between parked cars, where you may be hidden from drivers. Remember that drivers may not always see you, so it’s up to you to make yourself visible.
Follow traffic signals and rules
Always obey traffic signals and signs. This means waiting for the “walk” signal before crossing the street and stopping at the stop sign before crossing the road.
Make eye contact with drivers before crossing the road
While it’s important to follow traffic signals and rules, it’s also important to make eye contact with drivers before crossing the road. This ensures that they see you and are aware of your presence. Do this for every car that you are crossing in front of. If you’re not sure the driver sees you, wait or find another place to cross.
Stay alert and avoid distractions
Distractions can take your attention away from the road and increase your risk of an accident. As a pedestrian, avoid using your phone, listening to music with headphones, or engaging in conversations that require your full attention when crossing the road. Look both ways before crossing and keep your eyes and ears open to your surroundings.
Do not walk under the influence of alcohol or drugs
Walking under the influence of alcohol or drugs can impair your judgment and make it more difficult to navigate traffic safely. If you’ve had too much to drink or have taken any medication that can affect your reaction time, find a safe ride home instead of walking.
As a driver or pedestrian, it is your responsibility to take precautions to ensure everyone on the roads stays safe. By following these tips, you can reduce your risk of getting into an accident. However, if you’ve been injured in a pedestrian accident, we can help. Contact our Washington, D.C. pedestrian accident lawyers today to schedule a free consultation.