By Mashum Mollah
Holidays are some of the most fun times of the year. However, not everyone gets lucky during these festive and busy days. Many holidaymakers are involved in pedestrian injuries and accidents while crossing the road. Since pedestrians don’t have a seatbelt or vehicle to protect them somehow, damages can be severe.
One-third of pedestrian deaths occur on local municipal streets, which accounts for nearly 16% of traffic deaths every year. It might be that people are on holiday mode that they forget to be extra cautious on the road. Still, everyone should remember that pedestrians and drivers alike share the responsibility of keeping the road safe.
Check these essential tips to avoid pedestrian injuries during the holidays:
Find the Safest Place to Cross:
The number of vehicles on the road is doubled or even tripled during the holidays, so pedestrians must not cross in areas where it would be hard for them to be seen and see the traffic.
When passing, pedestrians also have to carefully look at different directions since vehicles may come from a different direction than expected.
Always look for a pedestrian lane or a sidewalk that you can use for crossing.
Drivers Won’t Always See You:
No matter how you like drivers to be paying attention to the road as they should, it doesn’t always happen. Some drivers are easily distracted, and others may also be under the influence of alcohol. So, how do you avoid reckless drivers? The best thing to do is to wait for the traffic to stop before crossing the intersection.
Make Yourself Visible:
Making yourself visible is vital, especially when you’re crossing the road at night. As much as possible, wear bright colored clothes or ones that are reflectorized. It would also be helpful to carry a flashlight with you at night.
Here are additional tips to make sure that drivers see you on the road:
- If you’re crossing the road at night without reflective or light-colored clothing, then make sure that you stay in areas that are well-lit.
- When you cross while the traffic is stopped or using the pedestrian lane, make eye contact with the driver to ensure that they see you as you pass.
Avoid Distractions:
Distractions are everywhere, and they’re much higher during the holidays and are more challenging to avoid. Your ears and eyes are your best tools as a pedestrian, so you have to use them properly. Watch out and stay alert to keep yourself safe.
Make sure to avoid the following mistakes below when crossing the road:
- Avoid using your phone: The use of handheld electronic devices accounts for a significant number of driver and pedestrian injuries and accidents every year.
Handheld electronic devices, like smartphones, have become an integral part of every person’s daily life. Some can’t just take their eyes off it even when on the road, which is true for both drivers and pedestrians.
- Wearing headphones: Again, your ears and eyes are your best tools when crossing the road, especially during a busy holiday season. Your ears keep you alert and also allow you to hear the vehicles on the road. Use your ears smartly, don’t cover them so that you can listen to the approaching traffic.
Remember the Basics:
Understanding the basic rules is key to being a safe pedestrian. You have to be mindful even with the smallest of things that may affect your safety on the road. Learn and remember the safe practices. You always get reminders about the right ways to cross the street from the authorities, and overlooking these things is never a good idea.
Avoid Alcohol Consumption:
Avoiding alcohol consumption is not only for drivers but for pedestrians, too. Remember that alcohol impairs your physical reflexes and decision-making skills. The festive holiday might make it hard for you to ditch alcohol, and if that’s the case, it would be better to stay where you are until you’re finally sober.
Know your Rights:
No matter how careful we are, there are some things that we don’t have control over with. You must know your rights when accidents suddenly hit you. Some of the things that you can avail of are:
- A pedestrian accident claim for hospitalization that holds the driver responsible for your damages.
- An injured pedestrian can also claim compensation from an insurance company.
Conclusion:
Even when it’s not the holiday season, it’s essential to remember that a lot of people use the road. Drivers and pedestrians must work together to ensure safety for everyone.
The tips above will make you a responsible pedestrian and help avoid pedestrian accidents for happier holiday celebrations.
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