If you have to walk near traffic, it is important to be aware of the risk of a pedestrian accident. These accidents cause injuries and even fatalities every single day. Pedestrians do not have much protection, so even a low-speed accident can have disastrous consequences.
So, how can you focus on safety yourself? Here are some important points to keep in mind.
Obey traffic laws
Always obey traffic laws, such as crossing roads at crosswalks and waiting for the walk signal. If there is a sidewalk, use it because it gives you more separation from traffic. If there is not a sidewalk, make sure that you walk facing traffic, rather than walking with it.
Focus on visibility
It is often best to pretend you are invisible to the drivers around you. Anything you can do to increase your visibility is important, such as wearing a high-vis vest or a headlamp, especially if you are walking at night. But you should always assume that drivers have not seen you. If you are crossing in front of a vehicle at a crosswalk, for instance, try to make eye contact with the driver first to ensure that they actually know you are there.
Avoid distractions
Finally, avoid getting distracted by your cellphone or any other electronic devices. It is common for people to listen to music on headphones or earbuds when they are running or walking near traffic, but even this can be a form of distraction that makes an accident more likely.
That being said, even if you do everything in your power to stay safe, negligent mistakes by the drivers around you could lead to severe injuries. Be sure you know how to seek financial compensation for medical bills and more.