Preventing Pedestrian Accidents

 Posted on December 00, 0000 in Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrian accidents and car accidents go hand-in-hand. Everyday, those on foot and those using others forms of transportation are placed at risk when they encounter vehicles on the streets. Whether the roads are rural or smack in the middle of a bustling metropolis, automobile traffic and pedestrian traffic merge and collide, creating opportunity for collision left and right.

What You Can Do as a Driver

As a driver, there are many simple things you can do to prevent pedestrian accidents and keep yourself and your passengers safe at the same time. The more proactive you are behind the wheel, the better your chances at avoiding accident, injury, and even fatality.

Avoid Distracted Driving

• Keep your interaction with other passengers limited;
• Keep your hands on the wheel at all times;
• Keep your focus on the road and the road alone; and
• Do not talk on the phone, text, or adjust the radio while driving.

Do Not Speed

• Practice following other vehicles at a distance of at least two seconds;
• Make it a habit of moving to the right lane and staying there when other cars are speeding around you;
• Stay alert to the changing speed limit signs as you drive; and
• Reduce your speed when weather conditions are bad.

What You Can Do as a Pedestrian

• Wear reflective clothing at night;
• Stay alert and move cautiously when visibility is poor due to weather or evening hours;
• Use the buddy system. When possible, try to walk, bike, or travel with at least one other person. Two pairs of eyes is better than one. If a driver is speeding as they pass by or is swerving on the road, you have a better chance of protecting yourself if someone else is with you to spot the behavior, should you not see it first; and
• Avoid distractions when around traffic. Avoiding distractions is just as important for pedestrians as it is for drivers when sharing the roads and sidewalks.

Preventing auto and pedestrian accidents is the responsibility of everyone on the road. When collisions happen, all parties involved need to contact a professional Lake County car accident attorney to ensure their rights are protected. We would be honored to help you. Call Salvi & Maher, LLP at 847-662-3303 to schedule a free consultation today.

Sources:

http://isp.state.il.us/docs/1-230.pdf

http://isp.state.il.us/traffic/speedlimitenf.cfm