Walking Safety

Walking may seem like the easiest, most natural thing in the world, but it can be dangerous.
Did you know that each year, cars, trucks and buses kill almost 6,000 pedestrians? Sixteen people are hit and killed each day somewhere in the United States. By using common sense, pedestrians and drivers can help prevent death and injury. Below are some tips to help you walk smart and a few ways drivers can help keep you safe:

Getting off on the right foot

• Cross at crosswalks. If there is no crosswalk, go to the corner to cross. Never cross in the middle of the block.
• Give drivers enough time to stop before you step into the crosswalk. Just because the crosswalk gives you the OK, that does not mean the driver has seen you enter the crosswalk.
• When walking at night, wear light-colored or reflective clothes that will make it easier for drivers to see you.
• Carry a small flashlight with you when walking at night.
• Before stepping off the curb, look left-right-left, and listen for oncoming traffic. Do not simply depend on traffic signals to tell you when it's clear to walk. Look before you step into the street.
• Do not cross from between parked vehicles.
• If there is a sidewalk, use it. Do not walk in the street. If there are no sidewalks, walk facing traffic as far out of the street as you can get.
• Keep an eye on the traffic at all times. Do not block your view with backpacks, books, hats or other items.