Safety Guidelines to Avoid Being Struck by a Car

Pedestrian safety becomes even more important during the summertime when more motorists are on the road. More pedestrians are also outside walking.

The truth is: unless pedestrians adhere to safety guidelines, they risk getting into collisions with vehicles.

The New York DMV suggests the following rules for pedestrians who are sharing the road with vehicles.

Places to Watch Out for Cars

Children in particular are in danger of being struck by a car when they are in the following locations:

• Near schools
• At bus stops
• On playgrounds
• At parks
• Around ice cream trucks

Parents should watch out for vehicles when in these places and also teach their children to do the same.

How to Walk with Traffic

Pedestrians must not walk on the road, but instead should walk on the side of the road. It is important to face traffic that is coming toward you, in the lane closest to you. Watch out for cars making right turns and cars in the other lanes making left turns. If there is a sidewalk, always walk on the sidewalk and not in the road.

Vehicles Backing Up

When motorists are backing up they may not be able to see a small child behind their car. It is crucial to wait and not walk behind a car that is backing up. Some motorists forget to check their side or rear view mirrors.

Crosswalks

The only places it is legal to cross the road is at a crosswalk or at a light or stop sign with a crosswalk. Even then, pedestrians should watch for speeding vehicles that might not stop in time.

Pedestrian Safety for Blind Pedestrians

If you are blind and use a white metal cane or guide dog, you have the right-of-way when crossing at a marked or unmarked crosswalk. This is true despite traffic signals or other rules of the road. However, it is always wise to exert caution whenever possible.

Traffic Laws

Traffic laws require pedestrians to obey signs and signals. You should never stand in the road to hitchhike. Nor should you conduct business with motorists.

Were you struck by a vehicle?

Even when following safety guidelines, accidents still happen. If you suffered serious injuries or a loved one died in a pedestrian accident, consult with a lawyer. We can arrange a free consultation with one of our attorneys at Sackstein, Sackstein & Lee, LLP.