Pedestrian Accidents

• Always follow the pedestrian rules of safety, which includes obeying all pedestrian signs, lights, and signals
• Cross at crosswalks that have pedestrian signals whenever possible
• Cross the street as part of a group whenever possible
• Always look both ways before crossing (it was the safe thing to do when you were a kid, and it’s the safe thing to do now)
• Wear a piece of reflective clothing if you must walk at night (pedestrian accidents are more common after dark)
• Wear comfortable and well-fitting walking shoes that are in good condition
• If you don’t trust a driver to stop, ignore what the signal tells you and wait before proceeding
• Put your phone and headphones away (walking while distracted is dangerous)

Putting your own safety first is never more important than when you are on foot.

Pedestrian Accidents and Motorist Negligence

The bulk of pedestrian accidents are caused by driver negligence, including all the following forms:

• Distraction – A motorist who is distracted by his or her phone can easily miss a pedestrian in his or her midst. Pedestrians are often harmed by distracted drivers. 
• Impairment – Drunk drivers suffer cognitive, sensory, and physical impairments that make them less likely to see pedestrians and less likely to react safely in accordance.

• Excess Speed – When a motorist drives faster than the law (or the road’s condition) allows, they make our roads more dangerous for pedestrians in two distinct ways – these drivers have less time to react safely to pedestrians in their midst, and they ensure any pedestrian accidents that do happen are more likely to be fatal.

• Exhaustion – Drowsy drivers suffer cognitive impairments that leave them less capable of reacting safely to the pedestrians they encounter on the road.  

• Aggression – When a motorist chooses to drive aggressively, he or she throws safety out the window, and pedestrians can pay the deadly price.