According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 6,205 pedestrians deaths occurred via accidents in 2019. Many of these accidents occurred due to driver error or inattention.
While pedestrians must take the proper steps to ensure their safety, drivers are equally responsible. In fact, implementing the following safe driving tips may help prevent many pedestrian accidents.
Use extra care when driving at night or during bad weather
Poor visibility makes conditions for pedestrians even more perilous. That is why drivers must take extra care at night or when driving in the rain, which greatly reduces visibility. Lowering the speed of their vehicles increases their response time and ensures they can make the proper evasive maneuver before an accident happens.
Always obey traffic signs
Traffic signs posted around schools and playgrounds urge drivers to reduce their rates of speed. Disobeying these rules may result in expensive fines and penalties, but they can also result in a damaging accident. Drivers must also stop and exercise caution when driving around school buses, which often stop to allow children to get on and off.
Drive safely around crosswalks and intersections
Drivers must respect pedestrians’ right-of-way when approaching a crosswalk or intersection. They should not pull too far into the crosswalk or street, as this may obscure the vision of other drivers. When a car stops at a crosswalk, other vehicles must not try to pull around them. There is a chance the vehicle is letting a pedestrian cross, so pulling around can cause serious injuries.
If you are a pedestrian, make sure you follow posted rules and only cross the street at crosswalks. Remain alert and aware at all times, and never assume you have the right-of-way unless you make eye contact with the driver.