No matter where you go, it seems just about everybody has their heads buried in their smartphones. Whether sending a text, talking on the phone, or selecting their next song, people aren’t paying attention to their surroundings.
With increasing traffic and more people walking to get from one place to another, understanding and implementing safety measures can prevent accidents and save lives. Here are some essential tips to help keep your family and others safe.
Tips for walkers, runners, and bicyclists
Keep the volume low.
With all the music available at the touch of a finger, I understand why kids enjoy walking with headphones or earbuds. Telling them not to wear them is unrealistic. However, they can still enjoy music at low volume. If your kids wear headphones or earbuds while biking, encourage them not to. Reaction time must be faster when on a bike. In addition, if they’re riding in the street, being able to see and hear is critical.
Put away the smartphone.
If your kids walk to school, have them put their phones in their pockets and take out their earbuds when using a crosswalk. This will allow them to hear crossing guard directions and focus on safely crossing.
Make eye contact with motorists.
When crossing the street, making eye contact confirms that they see you.
Don’t forget to look both ways.
While this is common sense, distracted people tend to walk without looking. Alert drivers know they should yield or stop for pedestrians. Distracted drivers and walkers can be a deadly combination. If you’re not familiar with pedestrian laws, click here.
Be aware of pavement conditions.
Mother Nature can wreak havoc on our roads and sidewalks. When walking, pay attention to changes in pavement. Sidewalks can buckle and crack, resulting in uneven footing.
Avoid jaywalking.
If possible, always cross the street at a traffic light or stop sign. This gives you a better chance of being seen by motorists. Standing between parked cars is dangerous. Drivers aren’t expecting people to walk out in front of them. You're even more difficult to spot if you’re standing in front of a pickup truck or SUV.
Never assume a car will stop.
Even if you’re at a designated crosswalk, never assume a car will stop. Many times, motorists are in a hurry and forget that pedestrians have the right of way in these situations.
Obey all traffic laws.
Bicyclists are required to follow all traffic laws. Most states and jurisdictions require bicyclists to come to a complete stop at stop signs and red lights. Be sure to know and follow the laws for where you’re riding.
Walk or ride in the proper direction.
Bicyclists should always ride in the direction of traffic. When walking, facing traffic is recommended if there are no sidewalks.
Report hazardous conditions.
Notify local authorities about poorly lit areas, broken sidewalks, or dangerous intersections.
Tips for drivers
Don’t block the crosswalk.
Keep the crosswalk open for walkers and runners. If you block the crosswalk with your vehicle, this will cause them to go around it, potentially putting them in harm’s way.
Yield to pedestrians.
Pay attention to school flashers as well as the traffic light walk signal. Flashing lights or a lit-up walk signal indicate the pedestrian has the right of way. Many states are implementing stricter laws to improve safety.
Be patient.
Honking or yelling at pedestrians won’t improve the situation. Also, be patient with the car in front of you. You may not be able to see why the driver has stopped.
Allow three feet.
Safe passing laws require a motor vehicle to allow no less than three feet of clearance when passing bicyclists.
Practice right-turn courtesy.
If you’re making a right turn, don’t speed past bikers and cut them off to make your turn. Stay behind them and allow them to ride through the intersection.
Check your mirrors.
Before you or your kids exit the car, check your mirrors to ensure bicyclists aren’t approaching. They may not anticipate or allow enough room for you to open your door.
Never pass a vehicle stopped for pedestrians.
Doing so can endanger the pedestrians crossing the street, as they may be hidden from view. Also, passing could result in a traffic violation because it’s illegal to overtake a vehicle stopped at a crosswalk.
