How to stay safe as a pedestrian
It is important for drivers and pedestrians to be vigilant at all times. It’s the responsibility of both to ensure each other’s safety. Pedestrians are vulnerable by virtue of their lack of protection if struck by a vehicle. Over the period 2011-2015, between 15% and 16% of road fatalities have been pedestrians (source: Transport Canada). We are sharing 5 tips to stay safe as a pedestrian and 5 tip to drivers to keep pedestrians safe.
To stay safe as a pedestrian, you should:
- Always cross at intersections or in pedestrian safety zones and be vigilant at both intersection and non-intersection locations.
- Always look up from your cell phone and other electronic devices when crossing the street, turn down the volume on headphones.
- Wait for the green light (or the pedestrian ”Walk” signal) before crossing the street.
- Make sure drivers see you before you cross. Never assume that drivers will yield or wait for you to cross, even if you have the right-of-way.
- Wear bright or reflective clothing, especially at night and avoid walking when visibility is low.
As a motorist, you should:
- Always be aware of pedestrians, don’t forget to look in your blind spot.
- Always follow traffic signals and be extra vigilant in low visibility conditions.
- Pay particular attention to younger children walking or playing on streets, to senior citizens walking and crossing at intersections and to workers in work zones.
- Slow down and be vigilant through residential streets and school zones.
- Be on the lookout for pedestrians and be prepared to yield, even if they don’t have the right-of-way.
Cantini Law|Droit has over 35 years of experience advocating for pedestrians who have suffered injuries from a car accident. If you have been injured by a motorist while walking or crossing the street, contact us to learn more about your rights at 1-844-CANTINI.
