The Responsibilities Pedestrian Have in Regard to Preventing Accidents

Wednesday, November 16, 2022 by The Law Offices of J. Jeffrey Herman

As a pedestrian, you have a responsibility to be mindful of your surroundings and take steps to prevent pedestrian accidents. While pedestrians have the right of way in most situations, they also have a duty to exercise caution and be aware of potential hazards.

Here are a few ways pedestrians can take responsibility for preventing pedestrian accidents:

Follow traffic laws

Pedestrians are required to follow traffic laws just like drivers. This includes using crosswalks, following traffic signals, and looking both ways before crossing the street. By following traffic laws, pedestrians can reduce the risk of being involved in an accident.

Stay alert

Distracted walking, such as texting or listening to music with headphones, can increase the risk of pedestrian accidents. It’s essential that pedestrians to stay alert and avoid distractions when walking near traffic.

Wear reflective clothing

If you are walking at night or in low light conditions, it’s wise to wear reflective clothing or carry a flashlight to make yourself more visible to drivers. This can help to prevent accidents by making it easier for drivers to see you. You may even consider further boosting your visibility by carrying a flashlight.

Avoid alcohol and drugs

Alcohol and drugs can impair your ability to make good decisions and react to potential hazards. If you are under the influence of alcohol or drugs, it’s best to avoid walking near traffic or crossing the street.

In fact, some research indicates that, in regard to your personal safety, walking while drunk may be more dangerous than driving while drunk. This isn’t meant to suggest that you should choose to drive drunk instead of walking home while intoxicated. If you’re drunk or under the influence of drugs and you need to get home, call a cab or schedule a ride with Uber or Lyft.

Pay attention to your surroundings

It’s important for pedestrians to be aware of their surroundings and pay attention to any potential hazards. This includes looking out for vehicles, bicycles, and other pedestrians, as well as being aware of potential obstacles in your path.

Use sidewalks

If available, use sidewalks rather than walking in the street. Sidewalks provide a safe and separate area for pedestrians to walk, which can help to prevent accidents.

By following these tips, pedestrians can take responsibility for preventing pedestrian accidents and reduce the risk of being involved in an accident. It’s important to remember that pedestrians have a duty to exercise caution and be aware of potential hazards, even if they have the right of way.

It’s also worth noting that exercising caution as a pedestrian can help you potentially secure compensation if you ever are harmed in an accident resulting from the negligence of a motorist. You’ll have a better chance of receiving the compensation you deserve if you can show that an accident didn’t result from your own carelessness to any degree.

Hiring the right attorney can also boost your chances of winning a case. If you’ve been hurt as a pedestrian, a Ventura pedestrian accident lawyer at the Law Offices of J. Jeffrey Herman is prepared to offer the representation you deserve. Learn more about how we can help by contacting us online or calling us at 805-983-2344 for a free consultation.