As vehicles, bikes and pedestrians jockey for position on increasingly congested streets, accidents are on the rise, and pedestrians are particularly vulnerable. Injuries sustained by pedestrians in motor vehicle accidents are profound, often catastrophic. Fractures and head injuries are common, and resulting medical treatment can be extensive, prolonged and painful. Even worse, some resulting injuries may result in chronic conditions.

To avoid personal injury, there are ways to improve your safety as a pedestrian by following some basic, easy tips:


Be Visible

Make sure you’re visible to drivers and make eye contact with them whenever possible. Wear lightly-colored or reflective clothing at night. Keep to well-lit areas, especially when crossing the street. Low-light conditions -- dusk, dawn, or in rain or snow -- are especially dangerous. Data shows that 32% of all pedestrian fatalities occur between 8pm and midnight.


Stay Alert

Remember that your eyes and ears are the best tools you have for keeping safe. Distractions are everywhere: store-fronts, other pedestrians, your cell phone, or wearing headphones. As much as your cell phone is part of your life, it takes your eyes off the road and distracts your attention. And you may be enjoying music on your headphones, but they close off your ears to the sound of traffic around you.


Follow the Rules

Know and follow all traffic rules, signs and signals -- especially around any construction areas you may encounter. Never assume a driver will give you the right of way -- even though they should. Making eye contact with a stopped or approaching vehicle ensures you have their attention.


Walk in Safe Places

Wherever possible, use crosswalks when crossing the street. If one’s not available, find the best-lit spot on the road to cross and wait for a long enough gap to do it safely. Don’t assume drivers will stop for you. Stay on sidewalks when you can -- and if a sidewalk isn’t available, walk on the side of the road facing traffic, to increase your visibility and so that you can see on-coming traffic.


Avoid Alcohol Consumption

Half of all traffic accidents resulting in pedestrian casualties involve alcohol consumption. Surprisingly, 34% of those casualties was on the part of the pedestrian. Alcohol affects your physical reflexes and decision-making skills as much on your feet as behind the wheel.


If You’re the Victim of a Personal Injury


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