Top Tips for Avoiding a Pedestrian Accident for Drivers and Walkers

Pedestrian accidents are a serious concern in Oklahoma City, with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reporting that there were 69 pedestrians killed in the year 2015 alone, a significant increase from the previous year. Luckily, the good news is that avoiding a pedestrian accident can be very easy, simply with more diligence from pedestrians and drivers alike. Here are some tips for staying safe, whether you’re on foot or behind the wheel–

Tips for Walkers: Staying Safe on the Road

If you are pedestrian, one of the best things that you can do is to familiarize yourself with the state’s laws for yielding to motor vehicles, and to rid yourself of the notion that the pedestrian always has the right of way (you do not, in fact, always have the right of way). In addition, you should also:

• Wear bright clothing to help vehicle see you;
• Use a flashlight when walking during hours of poor lighting;
• Always stop and look for cars, even if you do have the right of way;
• Wear proper shoes to reduce the risk of a slip and fall in the roadway; and
• Put your cellphone and music away! When you cannot see or hear an oncoming vehicle, you’re more at risk of being hit.

What Drivers Can Do to Reduce the Risk of Pedestrian Collisions

It’s not always walkers who are to blame for pedestrian accidents; indeed, many crashes are caused by the negligent actions of drivers. Tips for avoiding a crash include:

• Never, ever use a cellphone or other handheld device while operating a motor vehicle;
• Looking both ways before turning, not just in the direction of oncoming traffic (there could be an oncoming pedestrian on the sidewalk);
• Always slow down or stop when approaching crosswalks, particularly if you do not have the right of way, or if there are people within the crosswalk;
• Do not speed, and reduce speed further when in high-pedestrian zones and school zones; and
• Never drink and drive. Even having one drink impairs your ability to react in time should a person be in the road.

You Have Rights If You’re Hit by a Car

If you are hit by a car, you have the right to seek damages for your losses when you are not to blame for that crash. To learn more about these rights and our how talented Oklahoma City pedestrian accident attorneys can aid you if you’ve been in a crash, call us today for a free consultation.