A Dangerous Year for Older Pedestrians

Recently, an elderly pedestrian was struck down on a congested street after tripping over a black, Velcro-closed shoe.

The senior citizen, hit in the head of Richmond Hill during rush hour, was fortunate that he survived. Unfortunately, four other elderly pedestrians have not had the same luck on York Region roads this year.

As our communities grow older and roads more congested, experts predict that pedestrian fatalities will only grow in number. According to a spokesperson for the Canadian Association of Retired Persons, a car strikes a pedestrian every three hours in the GTA.

An article posted by the yorkregion.com has provided a list of tips for older pedestrians and motorists:

Tips for Pedestrians:

  • To counteract dimming daylight, wear bright or reflective clothing, reflective strips, lose the hoodie. 
  • Cross only at signalled intersections and crosswalks – where motorists are on the lookout for pedestrians.
  • Wear light-weight, well-insulated, waterproof boots with non-slip soles.
  • Seniors – check your medications and speak with your doctor to ensure the pills you take won’t impair your balance or alertness.
  • Get your eyes checked at least once a year if you are over the age of 65. 
  • Exercise to keep strong as you age. Tai Chi is good for balance and reducing fall risk. 
  • Use a cane to help with balance with an attachable ice pick for snowy sidewalks.

Tips for motorists:

  • Approach intersections with caution and scan carefully to look out for pedestrians.
  • Ensure your mirrors and windows are clean before you head out. Windshields, especially, should be clean inside and out as night-time glare can impair visibility.  
  • Slow down when it is raining, to better see pedestrians.
  • Make sure your headlights and windshield wipers are in good working order.  
  • Eliminate distractions: cell phone, eating or adjusting dials. 
  • To avoid glare from facing bright headlights, use your low beams within 150 metres of an oncoming vehicle and within 60 metres of following a vehicle. Always use low beams in fog.
  • Don’t over-drive your headlights – driving so fast that your stopping distance is farther than the distance covered by your headlights. Avoid driving over 70 km/h since the stopping distance at this speed is more than an average low beam’s range.

It’s important to always remain aware, confident and safe while on the road. However, slip and fall accidents are inevitable and if you find yourself in one, Diamond and Diamond Personal Injury Lawyers have the experience in helping accident victims and will get you the compensation that you deserve. If you’ve been injured, call us on our free injury hotline at 1-800-567-HURT (4878) or contact us here.