As more and more vehicles enter the nation’s roadways, vulnerable road users face greater risks for injuries and fatalities. These vulnerable road users primarily consist of pedestrians, bicyclists, and skateboarders. If you count yourself among these groups, staying alert can help you avoid a devastating accident. In addition, follow these safety tips.
Wear Bright or Reflective Clothing
Even before you leave the house, you should spend some time thinking about your presence on the road. Physical obstructions fog, heavy rain, or nightfall can all make it difficult for drivers to see you as you walk, bicycle, or skateboard. Wear white, bright, or reflective clothing to make yourself more visible.
Know When to Use the Road
As a pedestrian, you always have the right of way on a sidewalk. Use the sidewalk whenever there is one present instead of walking on the shoulder of the road. Depending on the municipality, skateboarders may be allowed to ride on sidewalks. You should familiarize yourself with local laws because some cities, such as San Francisco, have regulations on where skateboards can be ridden. Bicyclists should ride in the road and ride in the same direction as traffic. If there isn’t a shoulder or bicycle lane, cyclists can ride on the sidewalk. However, they should always give pedestrians and skateboarders the right of way.
Use All of Your Senses
Whether walking, cycling, or skateboarding, make sure you keep eye contact with drivers at intersections. This will ensure they see you before they proceed. You’ll also let them know that you see them by keeping consistent eye contact. In addition, avoid using earbuds or headphones while cycling or skateboarding. You may not hear important auditory clues that indicate roadway hazards, such as a beeping horn or a police siren.
Check Your Bicycle’s Lights and Reflectors
Many cities have traffic laws that require the use of lights and reflectors when riding a bicycle at night. Those same laws apply during low-light conditions, such as foggy days. Even as a pedestrian or skateboarder, you can use your phone’s flashlight to make yourself more visible. Using additional light sources, such as your phone’s flashlight, can help you avoid trip-and-fall hazards as well.
Cross With Traffic
Most accidents involving pedestrians occur at intersections. This makes it especially important to know how to cross intersections safely. Pedestrians, cyclists, and skateboarders should be extra cautious when crossing busier intersections at dusk or after the sun sets. Always cross with traffic and walk briskly. Even if the traffic light is green, stop at the intersection and look in both directions before crossing. Otherwise, you may step into the road before the driver of an oncoming vehicle has a chance to see you.
Know How to Walk Safely in the Road
While you should use sidewalks whenever possible, there are many streets that don’t have walkways. When you’re walking in an area without proper walkways, be sure you walk safely in the road. Stay on the shoulder and as close to the curb as possible. In addition, always walk against traffic or with oncoming traffic facing you. Keep eye contact with the drivers of oncoming traffic as much as possible. If you have a phone with you, use its flashlight to make yourself more visible to drivers.
Try to Avoid Dark Streets
Pedestrians, cyclists, and skateboarders should always remain aware of their surroundings. This involves staying in areas with exterior lighting. Try to stay under streetlights or within the range of exterior lights on buildings. If your route takes you to a street without any lighting, look for an alternative route. It’s better to arrive a little late rather than risk an injury on a dark street.
Stay Alert and Arrive Safe
While drivers should know to look for other road users, they won’t always see pedestrians, cyclists, or skateboarders. It’s your responsibility to watch for driving hazards as you share the roadway with vehicles. Staying aware of your surroundings can help you avoid hazardous situations even when you’re sharing the road with a careless or absentminded driver.