As the temperature rises, walking is a great way to stay active and enjoy the weather. But pedestrian injuries are on the rise with the most common being distracted while walking. Last year alone nearly 6,000 people were struck and killed by a car while walking.
Enjoy your surroundings and put your safety first—and the safety of others. Stop using your phone while walking this not only includes outdoors but indoors too. Over half of the distracted walking injuries occur in your own home.
Here are some pedestrian tips you should practice from the National Safety Council.
- Look left, right, and left again before crossing the street; looking left a second time is necessary because a car can cover a lot of distance in a short amount of time
- Make eye contact with drivers of oncoming vehicles to make sure they see you
- Be aware of drivers even when you’re in a crosswalk; vehicles have blind spots
- Don’t wear headphones while walking
- Never use a cell phone or other electronic device while walking
- If your view is blocked, move to a place where you can see oncoming traffic
- Never rely on a car to stop
- Children younger than 10 should cross the street with an adult
- Only cross at designated crosswalks
- Wear bright or reflective clothing
- Walk in groups
If you are injured in a pedestrian accident, you may be entitled to compensation. The skilled attorneys of Bye, Goff & Rohde will evaluate the facts of your case and help develop a legal strategy that best fits your situation. Call (715) 202-5699 or click here to schedule your free consultation today.