Pedestrians - people who travel by foot, wheelchair, stroller, or similar means — are among the most vulnerable users of the road. Take steps to be safe when walking on roadways:
- Increase visibility by wearing reflective or bright clothing.
- Carry a flashlight when walking at night.
- Use the designated crosswalk or intersection. Do not jaywalk.
- Follow “Don’t Walk” and “Walk” intersection signals.
- Look left, then right, then left again before moving into a crosswalk or intersection and walking across it.
- Use sidewalks or trails when available.
- If there is not a sidewalk, walk on the shoulder of the road facing traffic. Never walk with the traffic at your back.
- Be patient and aware.
- Stand clear of any object that may hide you from drivers.
- Stay sober.
- Make eye contact with drivers before crossing the road making sure they have seen you.
- Pay attention to engine noises and backup lights as they may indicate what the driver is planning.
- Watch for vehicles that are turning at crossings to make sure they stop for you.
- Do not wear headphones or use a phone while walking through crossings.
Child Safety
- Talk to children about how to be safe when walking. Explain how to use sidewalks, crosswalks and traffic signals.
- Teach children to not be distracted with electronic devices or other objects when crossing the road.
- Show children how to look left, then right, then left again before crossing the street.
- Children younger than 10 should cross streets with an adult due to their lack of ability to judge the speed and distance of cars.
Tips for Drivers
- Be alert in residential areas for people suddenly stepping into the street or running through an intersection.
- Be alert in school zones for children.
- Slow down and follow speed zone limits when passing through crosswalk areas and intersections.
- Ensure headlights correctly shine at night.
- Give pedestrians the right-of-way, letting them pass first.
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