Protect Yourself from Pedestrian Accidents
While you’re out and about on Baltimore, MD’s streets — running errands, walking to the park, or heading to work — you must stay vigilant of the vehicles around you. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), pedestrian fatalities account for 14 percent of all traffic deaths, but there are steps you can take right now to prevent personal injury from a car accident.
Take our Murphy Falcon & Murphy injury law firm advice and take all the following precautions to prevent pedestrian accidents at any time of the year:
Always Utilize Crosswalks and Pedestrian Signals
Avoid personal injury claims after a car accident by using crosswalks, pedestrian bridges, and tunnels when available. Always follow traffic signs and signals to ensure your safety as well. It’s important for both yourself and your loved ones to look both ways before crossing a road and to watch for turning cars in busy intersections. Our Maryland personal injury attorneys also remind you to use sidewalks whenever possible; it is safer to walk on sidewalks than it is to walk on the road.
Make Yourself Visible to Drivers
During the day, it’s easier to make yourself visible to drivers so they know you’re walking on the sidewalk or attempting to cross the street. But it’s important to also make yourself visible during dusk and at night to prevent a pedestrian accident. Remember to wear bright or reflective clothing and use reflective gear in low-light conditions to ensure motorists see you.
Walk Facing Traffic
When you’re walking on the sidewalk or very close to traffic, beware of your surroundings at all times. If possible, walk facing traffic to ensure you can see oncoming vehicles while crossing roads and parking lots. This will make it easier for vehicles to see you and give you more opportunities to react in case of an emergency.
Make Eye Contact
Speaking of facing oncoming traffic — remember to also look directly at drivers to ensure they see you before crossing the road or any intersection. Our personal injury law firm knows how important it is to assume that drivers do not see you and to make it your own responsibility to protect yourself from harm. Avoid filing a personal injury claim by making eye contact with a driver prior to getting off the sidewalk.
Consult With Our Personal Injury Attorneys Now
Remember, as a pedestrian, your safety is primarily your responsibility, so be mindful of your surroundings and consistently follow the rules in place to protect yourself. But should you experience any incidents on Maryland’s roads, reach out to our injury law firm now! Murphy Falcon & Murphy can help you work through the process of filing a personal injury claim and get the justice you deserve!