Each year in New Jerseys, dozens of pedestrians are injured in accidents, most involving automobiles. In some cases, pedestrians have lost their lives as a result of being hit by a car. The sad fact is that many of these accidents could have been avoided if the pedestrian had taken greater care when out for a walk here in the Garden State. Here are some helpful precautions you can take to avoid accidents when you are walking. Still, if you are hit by a car, you are going to want to have the assistance of an experienced personal injury attorney to help you in get the compensation you deserve for your injuries.
Make Sure You Are Visible to Motorists
While many folks love wearing dark clothing especially during the fall and winter months, these outfits can make it more difficult for drivers to see you. This is why you should consider wearing at least some light colored clothing if you are walking in suburban and rural areas that do not have sidewalks. Even if your neighborhood has adequate sidewalks, you are going to want to make sure motorists can see you when you cross the road. This need increases when you are out for a walk at night or in inclement weather where visibility is reduced. You might want to purchase a fluorescent safety vest when walking at night that will reflect light. Another helpful precaution is to carry a flashlight. Being visible reduces the chances that you will be struck by a car.
Only Cross at Designated Areas
In cold weather, you may be tempted to take short cuts, like crossing in the middle of the road. Do not give into temptation. Crossing in areas where motorists do not expect to see a pedestrian increases the odds that you will get into an accident. Most roads have designated intersections and crosswalks, which you should always use when crossing the street. These will be clearly marked, often having a pedestrian crossing sign or other traffic restrictions like a traffic light or stop sign. If there is a light, push the button to cross and wait for the signal. When you do have the right to cross, take the time to look both ways before crossing. Even if you think it is safe to cross, you may miss seeing a motorist traveling at a high speed, and the motorist may not be expecting to see you crossing.
Avoid Distractions Like Phones and Earbuds
If you are like most of us, then you probably don’t go anywhere without your phone. These devices keep us tuned into events through social media, streaming apps, and websites. However, they can also be a major distraction when you are out for a walk. Many sidewalks have uneven pavement caused by damage from tree roots. If you are not paying attention, you can trip over these ruts. In addition, if you have your earbuds in listening to music, you may not be able to hear a motorist honking his or her horn.
Obey Traffic Rules
Traffic rules are not just for motorists and bicyclists. They are also for pedestrians. These signs will let you know if you have right of way to cross the street, if you are at a designated crosswalk, and if the sidewalk on the other side is closed for repairs.
Always Use Sidewalks
If sidewalks are available, you should use them. The odds of getting hit while walking on a sidewalk are significantly less than when you walk in the road. If your street does not have a sidewalk, walk on the shoulder of the road in the direction facing traffic.
Stay Sober
Drinking or taking drugs while out for a walk can be a lethal combination. Such substances can impair your judgment, causing you to take greater risks than when you are sober. They also reduce your reaction time, making it more difficult to take evasive action if a car is headed in your direction.
Contact Our New Jersey Pedestrian Accident Attorney
While taking all of these steps can significantly reduce the chances of being hit by a car while you are out walking, they will not eliminate them completely. If you have suffered an injury as a pedestrian, the experienced personal injury attorneys at the Cassidy Law Firm, LLC, can help you get the compensation you deserve.