Pedestrian Accidents: How To Keep Yourself Safe When On the Road

Pedestrians have rights and responsibilities when navigating the road, just as motorists do. Unfortunately, pedestrians are still victims of vehicle crashes every year. As a pedestrian, it’s important to take legal recourse if you’re involved in an accident. However, laws for each state are different, and having a lawyer with sound knowledge of those local laws will be your first step in the right direction. 

Say, for instance, you got hit by a car while walking the streets around Disney World in Florida; it’ll be best to connect with Orlando pedestrian accident lawyers in the area. They will inform you of your rights as a pedestrian and represent you in a court of law to get you the justice you deserve. 

Let’s see what else pedestrians can do to stay safe on the road. 

How Often Do Pedestrian Accidents Happen in Florida?

According to Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV), there were over 366,076 total crashes reported from January 1, 2022, to December 15, 2022. Of those total crashes, there were 9,330 pedestrian ones. 

About 2.5% of the total crashes in Florida in 2022 involved pedestrians. Unfortunately, 693 of them resulted in fatalities. As pedestrians and motorists follow their responsibilities, everyone can be safer. 

Tips for Pedestrians to Stay Safe on the Road

You have rules to follow and responsibilities to uphold as a pedestrian that will make your navigation on the road safer, especially when dealing with motorists who would rather not be rule-abiding citizens while on the road. 

Here are some tips for pedestrians to stay safe while on the roads. 

Always Use Sidewalks

When available, utilize sidewalks when on busy main streets. They are the safest places for pedestrians because walking on the roads can open the door to more danger as motorists have a higher chance of crashing into you. 

If no sidewalks are available on the road you are walking on, navigate as far away from traffic as possible. Be sure to travel while facing the traffic so you can anticipate their movements before you cross. 

Have Electronic Devices Away

While listening to your favorite song with headphones or earbuds while on a leisurely walk can seem relaxing, it is hazardous. The music in your ears prevents you from focusing on the pedestrian crossing signage cues at crosswalks. Plus, you won’t hear sirens from ambulances or police officers trying to get through your crossing area. 

Refrain from texting while walking the streets too. Keep all electronic devices in a backpack and focus on reaching your destination. Once you do, then you can safely enjoy media consumption. 

Cross the Street Only Using Crosswalks

Speaking of crosswalks, always use them when crossing the street. While it may take longer to arrive at your destination, using a crosswalk is much safer than jaywalking. 

Jaywalking is when a pedestrian crosses the street in an area without a crosswalk. Hence, this unlawful action puts the pedestrian themselves at risk of a motorist hitting them. Plus, a motorist not expecting a pedestrian to dart out in an area without a crosswalk can make it harder for them to stop for the pedestrian, depending on how close the pedestrian is to their vehicle when they attempt to cross the street. 

Communicate With Drivers Via Eye Contact

When crossing the street, always make eye contact with the drivers nearby. Not every driver may see that you are attempting to cross the street. Hence, making eye contact with motorists can be another step to keep you safe while on the road. 

Do Not Walk Home If You Are Drunk

Being a pedestrian while intoxicated makes it challenging to see and understand the pedestrian signage at crosswalks. Plus, you may be bold when intoxicated to cross the street when you desire without obeying traffic because you may feel on top of the world. 

Have a designated driver with you at the bar, or call a trusted family member or friend to take you home if you are drunk. If no one is available, call for an Uber or Lyft driver or a local taxi or bus service to get you home safely. 

Now that you know more about ways to stay safe as a pedestrian on the road, we wish you safety in your travels!