Several pedestrian accidents occur daily in the United States and the Jacksonville Metro Area is not the exception to the rule. In most cases, pedestrians end up being seriously injured, even fatally, depending on the size and weight of the vehicle. And despite pedestrians can do little to prevent a driver from driving recklessly or negligently, there are certain steps that both drivers and pedestrians can take to increase their safety while on the road. Let’s review some of them!
Pedestrian Accidents Prevention: What Can Drivers Do?
Respect Speed Limits
As a driver, it’s important that you are always aware of the speed limit and that you avoid speeding, especially if the road is icy or wet. If you’re driving near a hospital, school or park, take into account that there are probably more pedestrians nearby including children, so you should be extra cautious.
Don’t Drive Under the Influence
Avoid driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. They reduce your reaction time, which puts yourself, other passengers, drivers and pedestrians at risk. Besides, driving sober is not only essential to keep you safe but it’s also what the law requires. Remember that you can be seriously penalized if you are involved in a pedestrian accident while driving under the influence.
Slow Down in Pedestrian Areas
Driving in pedestrian areas can be tricky as pedestrians may be walking leisurely without paying attention to the vehicles around them. Being extra patient and taking it slow can make a huge difference.
Be Patient
Drivers need to be extra patient with seniors or disabled individuals crossing the street. Elderly people may need more time to do so or they may find it more challenging to see you. Leaving additional distance, looking for eye contact and an additional dose of patience can help those with special circumstances cross the road safely.
Avoid Distractions
Replying to a text message, checking what that Instagram notification is about, listening to very loud music, responding to calls, having an argument or being engaged in a conversation while driving are some of the most common distractions that can lead to an accident against a pedestrian. Do your best to avoid these and you’ll keep everybody on the road safe.
Avoiding Pedestrian Accidents: Tips for Pedestrians
Stick to Designated Crossing Areas
When you’re on foot, sticking to designated crossing areas is a great way to avoid being hurt in an accident. They usually have control devices that let you know when it is appropriate for you to cross the street.
Never jaywalk; only cross on a crosswalk when the “walk” symbol is displayed. And even then, make sure that you look around you!
Look at Both Sides
If you’re on foot, you should always look at both ways for traffic before crossing the street. Stay aware of drivers who may be running a red light, making a turn or simply not paying attention to the traffic lights.
Teach Your Children About Road Safety
There’s plenty that parents can do to keep children safe on the road. Remember that examples run way deeper than words and that children will imitate and repeat what you do. Explain to them the meaning of traffic lights and why it’s important to follow them. Make sure you demonstrate to them the proper places to cross and how to stay safe. Tell them to grab your hand while crossing the street and to avoid running.
Keep Your Mobile Phone in Your Pocket
It is increasingly frequent to see people walking down the street completely mesmerized by their mobile phones. They are so engaged that they totally forget about keeping themselves safe on the road. Did you know that mobile phones are one of the most important factors that have increased pedestrian accidents?
Don’t Expect Drivers to See You
We all know that drivers should be paying attention to the road but we all know as well that this isn’t always the case. To keep yourself safe on the road while you’re on foot, double-check that the traffic stops before you cross an intersection even if it is legal for you to do so.
Regardless of taking all the safety measures and being as careful as possible, we cannot control everything, and therefore, pedestrian accidents can still happen. On such occasions, make sure you receive the medical attention you need as soon as possible. Then, make sure that you talk to pedestrian accident experts. Let the specialists at Accident Help Jacksonville do the talking.
