The Rules for a Safe and Wise Pedestrian

Whether going on foot in the streets of upstate New York, the beach streets of Miami or downtown Sacramento, the need for pedestrians to be safe never change. Not even the best Sacramento accident attorney could better a safe and defensive pedestrian. Prevention, after all, it will always be better to be safe than sorry.

Here are some of the most fundamental pedestrian safety guidelines:

• Do not cross just about anywhere. Always go for the zebra lines and designated pedestrian crossings.
• Never cross until you are allowed to. Be wary of the Walk/Don’t Walk signs.
• Stay on the sidewalk.
• Always keep an upright state of mind when on the streets – no alcohol, no drugs. Focus.
• Make sure you are visible to the drivers. When walking at night, use bright colored or reflective clothes or bring a flashlight.
• When walking at night, go for the well-lit areas.
• Make sure the road is as clear as possible. Look on both sides and make sure all lanes are clear or at least all cars have stopped to give way.
•  Make eye contact with drivers if possible; this way you’ll know they see you when you’re crossing.
• Focus. Keep your mind on the road and not on anything else. Do not use your text or call while crossing the road. And do not use your earphones too.
• Never trust all drivers to be responsible. Because they are NOT.

Being a pedestrian is not a walk in the park. It takes just as much responsibility as driving – even more so because your body is directly exposed to the elements and more vulnerable. On top of that, it takes mutual respect from all users. You have to keep in mind that the roads are a public facility everyone is entitled to the use of it – pedestrians and drivers alike.