Safety Tips and Legal Recourse
Imagine you’re just walking down the sidewalk, maybe checking your phone or thinking about what’s next on your to-do list, when you begin to step off the curb, and suddenly, a car speeds by and misses you by inches. Your heart races as you realize how quickly a normal walk could have turned into a serious pedestrian accident. Understanding the common causes of Connecticut pedestrian accidents and how to avoid them can help keep you safe.
The Usual Suspects: Do you know the common causes of pedestrian accidents?
Distracted Driving
The ever-present smartphone. It’s great for selfies and texting your BFF, but not so great when a driver can’t put it down. Distracted driving, whether it’s a text, a phone call, or even eating or fiddling with the radio, is a leading cause of serious pedestrian accidents. Drivers must keep their eyes on the road and hands off the gadgets. And, like it or not, for your safety, look into oncoming cars to see if the driver is even paying attention.
Jaywalking
We’ve all been there — impatiently waiting for the light to change or thinking we can dash across the street safely. However, jaywalking is a risky move that can lead to serious consequences. Crosswalks exist for a reason: to give pedestrians a fighting chance against the metal beasts on wheels.
Poor Visibility
It’s a dark, rainy night, and you’re dressed head-to-toe in your stylish black outfit. Unfortunately, drivers can’t see you. Poor visibility due to weather conditions, insufficient street lighting, or dark clothing can contribute to serious pedestrian accidents. Bright colors and reflective gear are always a good idea, especially at night. If you have a flashlight, use it to light your way and alert drivers.
Safety Tips: How to keep yourself safe while walking.
Now that we’ve identified the culprits, let’s talk about how you can stay safe while strutting your stuff on the sidewalk:
Be Aware of Your Surroundings
Stay alert and avoid distractions. Yes, that means putting your phone away while walking. Pay attention to traffic signals and make eye contact with drivers before crossing the street.
Use Crosswalks
Always cross at designated crosswalks and intersections. It may be an extra few steps, but your safety is worth the effort.
Be Visible
Wear bright or reflective clothing, especially at night or during bad weather. Carry a flashlight if you’re walking in poorly lit areas, and make sure drivers can see you from a distance.
Follow Traffic Rules
Respect traffic signals and pedestrian signs. Just like drivers have rules to follow, so do pedestrians. Wait for the walk signal, even if the coast looks clear.
Walk on Sidewalks
Whenever possible, use sidewalks. If there are no sidewalks, walk facing traffic so you can see oncoming vehicles and react if necessary.
When the unthinkable happens, you need a dedicated legal team.
Despite our best efforts to stay safe, serious accidents still happen. If you or a loved one has been injured, it’s crucial to have a dedicated legal team on your side. When you hire an experienced law firm, you’re not just represented by one person or a small office. You have a team of professionals who will fight for your rights. Schedule a no-charge strategy planning meeting with our experienced team at The Maddox Law Firm. We’re here to support you every step of the way with empathy and expertise. When it matters, make it Maddox.
