According to one recent study, 137,000 American pedestrians were treated for cash-related injuries in a single year. While a personal injury lawyer will help you in achieving justice following an incident, there are steps you can take to ensure each stroll is as safe as possible. Share the road responsibly with these pedestrian best practices. 

How Can You Prioritize Safety as a Pedestrian?

When possible, cross the street at a crosswalk or intersection. At the crosswalk, pay attention to any “Walk” and “Don’t Walk” signals. However, don’t blindly trust these signals, as some drivers may disregard them. Always look left and right before crossing.

If you cannot find a crosswalk, find an area that is well-lit and allows you the best view of traffic. Wait until there is a safe gap in traffic — give yourself more than enough space so you aren’t panicking as you cross— and watch for traffic as you go.

If you’re walking on a road that doesn’t have a sidewalk, walk facing the traffic and stay as far from it as possible. Do not walk on highways or other busy streets where pedestrians are prohibited or generally do not venture to. Dress in bright colors that drivers will see in any weather. 

What Are Tips for Staying Safe at Night? 

Many of the pedestrian accidents that personal injury attorneys take on happen at night. Take extra care to ensure you’re visible to drivers by wearing light-colored or reflective clothing. 

Walk in well-lit areas and carry a flashlight with you for those times when you cannot find one. Before crossing the street, make eye contact with the driver to ensure they can see you. 

While you’ll want to avoid distractions at all times of the day, with night comes decreased visibility so you’ll want to be extra sure all your senses are active. Put away your phone, headphones, and other electronic devices and keep your full attention on the road. Avoid walking after consuming drugs or alcohol, as both will impair your judgment and fine motor skills, making you an unfit pedestrian. 

If you sustain injuries even after following pedestrian best practices, pursue personal injury damages with the attorneys at Coyne, Cundiff & Hillemann P.C. in Lake St. Louis, MO. Their expert trial attorneys have over 75 years of combined experience. They’ve successfully represented clients in O’Fallon, Wentzville, and the surrounding areas. In addition to helping clients with personal injury law, they practice family law and criminal defense. For reputable legal assistance, call (636) 561-5599. Discover more about their personal injury case experience online.