Seattle Sidewalk Safety - Tips for Pedestrians
- Walk on sidewalks and pedestrian bridges
when available. Where sidewalks do not
exist, walk on the edge or shoulder of the
left side of the road. Walking against
traffic will help prevent you from being
struck from behind.
- Cross roads at marked crosswalks or
intersections. Especially avoid
crossing the street between parked cars,
where oncoming vehicles will not be able to
see you. Observe traffic signals, and
look left, right, and left again before
entering the road. Use extra caution
when crossing wider or higher-speed roads.
- When weather conditions compromise
vehicle stopping times and driver
visibility, allow extra time and distance.
Don’t allow outerwear or umbrellas to block
your view of traffic.
- When walking in the dark, wear brightly
colored or reflective clothing or carry a
flashlight.
- When possible, make eye contact with
drivers before walking in front of their
vehicle at intersections. Stay away
from vehicles’ blind spots.
- Pedestrians who have been consuming
alcohol are statistically more likely to be
involved in a traffic accident. It’s
safer to take a taxi or public
transportation home if you’re intoxicated.
It’s also important to be aware of the
effects of drugs and medications on your
perception and motor skills.
- Don’t allow small children to cross
streets unsupervised, or to play near
traffic.
Sources:
Washington DOT: http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/Walk/Safety_Tips.htm
Street Smarts: http://www.getstreetsmarts.org/safety.htm
