Kylie Chappell, Safety Compliance Manager
It is reported that about 6,000 pedestrians are killed every year by automobiles with an additional 85,000 that report having non-fatal injuries. As you read these numbers, you might think, “Wow, but I am not a pedestrian because I have a vehicle and drive…so it does not affect me.” I will admit that thought went briefly through my mind also. But think about it…anytime that we are outside of our vehicles we are pedestrians. A pedestrian is anyone walking on foot. So that means that when we walk from our office to our vehicles or when we are in a parking lot returning our shopping cart we are pedestrians. As pedestrians and drivers we have dual responsibilities to exercise caution to a great level for our safety and for the safety of others around us.
As drivers, we are the ones who must exercise the most caution because the brakes and the vehicle are in our control.
- Follow slower speed limits in school zones, near parks/playgrounds and areas where children are present.
- While turning, make sure you slow down and give proper space to pedestrians crossing.
- Be extra cautious when backing up—a pedestrian can move into your path at any time.
Just like drivers, as a pedestrian we must also exercise caution because we cannot assume that the driver is paying full attention to the road.
- Be aware of traffic signals and symbols; those signs are not just for the drivers.
- Avoid running across the street; this can create a distraction to the driver which can lead to more severe accidents.
- Be careful at intersections; drivers may fail to yield while turning onto another street.
- Always walk on the sidewalk; if one is not available, then walk facing traffic.
We have all heard the above safety tips before, but road safety is a shared responsibility for both the driver and the pedestrian. Let’s all do our part to help make our roads safer for everyone.
