Philadelphia Attorneys Discuss Pedestrian Safety Tips

In the last few weeks there have been several pedestrian accidents in the Philadelphia metropolitan area, including a recent deadly hit-and-run in Bucks County. A 51-year-old Northampton Township woman was struck and killed while standing right in front of her home. The proximate area surrounding the accident scene has no sidewalks and very little shoulder space. Preliminary police investigation suggests the driver ran over the victim, as most of the vehicle’s damage is under the car, rather than on the front fender. In Berks County, a college student struck a 12-year-old girl who police say was looking the other way when she stepped in front of the driver. The force of the car sent the girl airborne, and she landed in a nearby ditch. A man also died after being struck by a vehicle while crossing an intersection in Southwest Philadelphia earlier this month.

Numerous pedestrian fatalities and injuries have blanketed the beginning of 2014. And, with the hopes of providing preventive advice on further pedestrian accidents, it is important to focus on these pedestrian safety tips in order to stay out of danger when walking on or near the road.

Safety Tips

Pedestrians are among the most vulnerable users of the road. Whenever you are leisure walking or rushing to work in your car, please keep these tips in mind:

Pedestrians

Cross the street at designated crosswalks. Pay close attention at intersections where drivers may fail to yield the right-of-way while turning onto another street. If you are walking at night, wear reflective clothing and carry a flashlight. Walk facing the traffic if there are no sidewalks, and stay alert at all times.

Drivers

Drivers are responsible for traffic and pedestrian safety, as well. Drivers should always be prepared to yield the right-of-way to pedestrians, and to stop for pedestrians at crosswalks and intersections. Exercising extreme care when passing a stopped vehicle is very important – the car may be stopped to allow a pedestrian to walk by. Slow down and obey the speed limit. Take extra care around schools, playgrounds, and neighborhoods.

Parents & Children

Starting at a very young age, parents should talk to their kids about how to be safe while walking. Children should always walk on the sidewalk and cross at intersections with traffic signals and crosswalks. Children should be advised to not use technological devices while walking. Instead they should walk with their heads up, they should be alert, and they should always look both ways before walking. And, most notably, parents should practice what they preach. Parents must set a good example for their children by exercising the safety precautions they teach their children.

On average in the next two hours, one pedestrian will die from injuries suffered in a traffic crash. If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in a pedestrian accident, you need a dedicated advocate on your side. At Solnick Lawyers, we have years of experience handling personal injury claims due to auto accidents. Contact us or call 215-481-9979 today for a free confidential consultation.