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Historically, the majority of pedestrian fatalities happen during the fall months. As we are winding down summer and heading into the cooler months, make zero pedestrian fatalities a priority for you and your family. Pedestrian fatalities can be 100 percent preventable.
With the days getting shorter and more pedestrians out and about, a good start to staying safe is to ensure you and your loved ones know these four tips:
1. Be aware of your surroundings — avoid distractions
Did you know distracted walking can be just as dangerous as distracted driving? As a pedestrian, you may have the right-of-way but if there is an auto-pedestrian crash, you as the pedestrian will always lose. Never assume the right of way means you are safe.
2. Wear reflective gear
You may think motorists see you as you walk your children to school or enjoy an evening stroll, but think again. Recognizing pedestrians, especially at dawn, dusk and the dark hours of the night can be challenging for drivers. Even light colored clothing is difficult for motorists to see. Make sure to wear reflective gear and/or use a light such as a flashlight or headlamp for increased visibility to motorists.
3. Obey crosswalk signs
Designated crosswalks exist for our safety. Make sure the driver sees you before crossing a crosswalk. Make eye contact with the driver or wave to make sure you are seen and recognized. Never proceed in the crosswalk without communicating with drivers, and never jaywalk — the risk is just not worth it.
4. Don’t be a pedestrian on the highway.
Pedestrians can be found on all our roadways, even busy highways. If you are on the freeway as a pedestrian for any reason (a flat, your car breaks down, something falls out of your vehicle), it is an emergency situation. Don’t try to fix the situation alone. Instead, stay in your vehicle, call 911 for assistance and remain buckled until professional help arrives.
Every year pedestrians die on our freeways — don’t let it be you or those you love. Utah troopers and Incident Management Team (IMT) trucks are here to help, so let them help.
As a pedestrian, be cautious on or near roads, and help those around you do the same. To learn more, or to watch other educational videos, visit ut.zerofatalities.com/heads-up/.
