Pedestrian accidents are a growing concern for everyone especially since distracted driving is skyrocketing. As the number of pedestrians sharing the streets with vehicles continues to rise, it’s crucial to stay prepared, stay alert, and emphasize safety measures for both pedestrians and drivers. Most people already know not to cross the street without looking both ways, or when the signal says to stop, but there are some lesser-known strategies that can make a significant difference in preventing accidents and ensuring the well-being of everyone in and around the road. This article will delve into some of these unique safety tips and explore how they can contribute to a safer road environment.
Understanding Pillar Blind Spots:
One often overlooked aspect of pedestrian safety revolves around the ‘A’ and ‘C’ pillars of vehicles. The ‘A’ pillars are the vertical supports located on each side of a vehicle’s windshield, while the ‘C’ pillars are situated at the back of the vehicle, supporting the roof. Pedestrians, take note: these pillars can obstruct a driver’s view, making it essential to exercise extra caution when crossing roads. Always approach intersections and crosswalks with care, peeking or moving around these pillars to ensure you are visible to drivers. On the other hand, drivers can eliminate these blind spots by properly adjusting their mirrors and, if safe, peeking around the corners of the pillars. By doing so, drivers can enhance their field of vision, reducing the risk of overlooking pedestrians.
Turning Right on Red with Pedestrian Walk Signals:
Most pedestrian accidents happen in crosswalks. They frequently involve vehicles that are turning or that are distracted. Navigating right turns at intersections might seem straightforward, but it’s vital for drivers to remember that pedestrians have the right of way – even when drivers have a green light. It’s a rule that’s easy to overlook but can impact pedestrian safety significantly. When making a right turn, drivers should yield to pedestrians who are crossing, even if the light is green, even if the driver in front of you didn’t, even if the walk signal isn’t active. For pedestrians, while waiting for the walk signal is important, try adding an extra layer of safety like an umbrella, bright colored purse, or other accessory to ensure drivers are aware of your presence before proceeding.
Crosswalk Etiquette and Eye Contact:
Crosswalks are designed to enhance pedestrian safety, but they require cooperation from both crosswalk users and drivers. Pedestrians should try making eye contact with drivers before stepping onto the crosswalk. This simple action ensures that drivers are aware of their presence and intentions. On the driver’s side, patience is key. Allowing pedestrians ample time to cross and using non-verbal language to signal that you are aware of their presence is not only courteous but also a fundamental safety practice.
Promoting Pedestrian Safety
Preventing pedestrian accidents demands a collective effort from both pedestrians and drivers. If either party does not do their part, the consequences can be catastrophic. By embracing these lesser-known safety tips, we can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and create a safer road environment for everyone. Whether it’s understanding pillar blind spots, yielding during right turns, exercising curbside caution, or practicing crosswalk etiquette, these measures are essential in fostering a culture of safety and responsibility on our roads.
