Pedestrian Safety
Who is at risk for pedestrian injury (PI)?
Older adults are almost twice as likely to be killed by an automobile compared to other members of the general public having not only the highest rate for pedestrian death, but also the highest rate for pedestrian injury. |
What can I do to prevent being involved in a Pedestrian Injury (PI)?
There are many benefits to walking including weight management, decreasing risk for heart attack and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Keeping this in mind, there are also risk factors when walking, especially as a pedestrian in public. Here are a few hints and tips to help minimize those risk factors and keep you safer as a pedestrian:
- Always stop at the edge of a parked vehicle or curb
- Look both ways prior to crossing (LEFT-RIGHT-LEFT)
- Walk on sidewalks when available
- Never jaywalk
- Only cross at designated crosswalks or a signaled intersection
- Never cross between parked cars
- Be visible
- If walking, wear bright colored garments and dress in layers
- Avoid walking while distracted
- Be aware of your surroundings and environment at all times
- Give yourself plenty of time to cross an intersection
- Never run in to an intersection or roadway, for any reason!
Other important tips:
- Drivers may NOT always see you…so see them!
- With increased speed, there is an increased risk for injury and death…
- Weather conditions can increase risk for pedestrian accidents…
- Drivers may be distracted, inpatient or just not paying attention…
Having a cellular phone or emergency communication device with you is optimal. Never operate a cell phone or communication device while driving.
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