When pedestrians are struck by cars, there is a very high chance that they will suffer serious injuries. Many fatal accidents involve pedestrians. This is especially true for children, who are harder to see, especially when drivers are in oversized vehicles like pickup trucks or SUVs.
As such, pedestrians should focus on safety. Below are some tips that can help.
Follow all rules of the road
First off, pedestrians should try to be predictable and follow all of the rules that are set up for their own safety. This means crossing at crosswalks rather than jaywalking, for instance, and walking while facing traffic instead of walking with traffic.
Avoid distractions
Another common issue is that pedestrians are struck when they are distracted. It is best not to use a phone while walking near traffic, even for simply sending a text message. If someone is going for a jog, they should avoid listening to music on headphones.
Make yourself visible
One of the main things drivers say is that they never saw the pedestrian. This is why it can be important for people to focus on visibility. It is best to wear bright clothing that does not blend into the road. Pedestrians who are going to be out after dark may also want to consider headlamps, LED light vests or clothing with reflective fabrics.
Seeking compensation
These safety tips can help, but it is important to note that pedestrians are not responsible for the mistakes drivers make around them. When drivers are negligent and cause car accidents, it is important for those who have been injured to know how they can seek financial compensation for medical bills and related costs.