Arizona roads can be dangerous, not only for cars, but for pedestrians out and about as well. Every year, the Arizona Department of Transportation reports over 1,400 accidents involving pedestrians every year, many of whom are seriously injured or killed. Especially in more urban areas, it’s important to take extra precautions to avoid being hit by a car. Here are some safety tips to keep you safe when you’re out for a walk.
Be Conspicuous
Make sure that drivers can see you, and even try to make eye contact with them if possible before you cross the street in front of stopped vehicles. This is especially important at night, since 32 percent of all accidents resulting in pedestrian fatalities occur between the hours of 8 p.m midnight. Wear light-colored or reflective clothing at night and stay in well-lit areas, especially when you’re crossing the street.
Be Present
If you’re walking in a busy area, it’s best to check your Facebook after you’ve reached your destination. Your most important tools for staying safe are your eyes and ears. Stay alert, and don’t assume that every driver is alert enough for the both of you.
Follow the Rules
If you’ve spent time driving in the central corridor of the Phoenix metro area, you’ve seen some bold (or crazy) pedestrians try to cross six lanes of traffic, sometimes with an air of entitlement, even. Unfortunately, a sense of entitlement won’t save your life if a driver doesn’t see you. Be aware of the rules and be able to anticipate what the drivers will do around you. Even if you do have the right of way, make sure that drivers see you before you step out in front of them.
Know your Drinking Limits
Almost 50% of all fatal pedestrian accidents involve alcohol, and a large percentage of those involve a pedestrian who has had too much to drink. Liquid courage may help you talk to the attractive person across the room, but it could turn into liquid recklessness out in the streets. When you drink, your reflexes are slower and your decision-making skills are not typically up to par, either. In this case, it’s usually best to call an Uber.
The Phoenix metro area is growing faster than ever before, bringing more sights to explore to Valley residents. When you’re out walking around, be sure to follow these tips to stay out of the way of oncoming traffic.
