Georgia roads can be very dangerous for pedestrians. From distracted drivers who fail to watch the road to poorly lit intersections, there are many opportunities for accidents to happen.
However, pedestrians can take proactive steps to protect themselves. If you are walking in Georgia, here are a few pedestrian safety tips that can help reduce the chances of an accident.
#1: Look Both Ways Before Crossing the Street
This tip is one of the first rules we learn as pedestrians, and for good reason. Motor vehicles can be unpredictable, especially at places like crosswalks and intersections. Serious pedestrian collisions often occur in these areas.
If you are crossing the street, always take a moment to check for oncoming drivers before entering the road. Avoid jaywalking; you should only cross the street where a driver could expect a pedestrian.
#2: Don’t Drink and Walk
Just like drivers, pedestrians should avoid going for a walk while intoxicated. Alcohol can affect our balance, judgement, and motor skills, heightening the risk of an accident. Instead of walking home after a night out, call a taxi or a rideshare, or ask a designated sober driver to take you home instead.
#3: Follow the Rules of the Road
Pedestrian safety goes both ways. Not only do drivers need to follow Georgia traffic laws, but pedestrians also have a responsibility to uphold these rules as well. When you are out for a walk, always obey any traffic signs and signals in the area and conduct yourself in a safe manner.
#4: Stay Alert While Walking
It’s tempting to listen to music or look at your phone while taking a walk. However, these distractions can be very dangerous and prevent you from noticing an impending hazard until it is too late.
To avoid unexpected accidents, it is important to be as alert as possible. Keep your eyes on the road and pay attention to the drivers around you. Never assume that a driver can see you.
#5: Improve Your Visibility
Many pedestrians are injured because a driver claims not to see them. In addition to staying alert and keeping an eye on passing cars, you should also take steps to improve your visibility whenever possible.
First, avoid walking at night. If you must walk in the dark, stay in well-lit areas, wear light or bright clothing, and carry a flashlight or other reflective tool. These steps will make you more noticeable to passing vehicles.
What to Do After a Pedestrian Accident
While these tips can help you stay safe, pedestrian accidents can still happen. If you are involved in one of these collisions, follow these steps to seek help:
Call 911 and report the accident to the police.
Seek medical attention, even if you do not feel injured. Some injuries do not show symptoms immediately.
Document evidence at the scene if you can. Take photographs and videos and exchange contact information with any witnesses.
Collect the contact, license, and insurance information of the driver who was involved in your accident.
Once you have sought medical attention for your injuries, speak to a pedestrian accident lawyer about your legal options. An attorney can help you file a claim against the driver and recover the compensation that you deserve.
