Pedestrian vehicle accidents happen more often than we think they do. Just like any accident, either the pedestrian or the driver could be at fault. It’s never always the driver’s fault, neither is it always the pedestrian’s fault.

Unfortunately, since we all are pedestrians at a certain point, pedestrian accidents are serious. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration or NHTSA, over 6,000 pedestrian fatalities in 2019 due to car crashes.

Pedestrian vehicle accidents could have effects that are not always immediately visible to the naked eye—for example, brain injuries, long term or permanent disabilities (different forms of disability). 

In many cases, it is best to seek the help of pedestrian accident lawyers to guide you on what you need to do.

Let’s talk about how to spare yourself from being a pedestrian accident victim. Similarly, we will also talk about avoiding being involved in pedestrian vehicle accidents if you are the driver.

Walking Safety Tips To Avoid Pedestrian Accidents In Ontario

Even if you drive your car to places, being a pedestrian at some point is inevitable. The moment you get out of your car and walk towards a restaurant, your office building, or merely crossing the street makes you a pedestrian. 

In a matter of minutes or a split second, a pedestrian accident can happen if you aren’t careful.

Below are some of the things you can do to avoid getting in a pedestrian accident. These are pretty easy. However, many pedestrians unconsciously neglect these basic rules, thus getting into accidents.

• Never use your cellphone while walking on the streets. Just like driving, you should always keep your eyes on the road. Always be alert.
• Walk on sidewalks or, when unavailable, walk against the traffic, not along with it.
• Keep yourself far from the traffic as much as possible.
• As much as possible, use crosswalks to get to the other side of the road.
• Never cross the street when there are approaching vehicles.
• Do not race against the vehicle by attempting to cross to the other side of the road. 
• If there are approaching vehicles, stop and stay put. Wait for the street to clear out of cars.
• If you often cross the street at night, bring a flashlight to be more visible on the road.
• Be mindful of cars exiting driveways, parking, turning on curbsides, etc. 
• Do not walk or cross the street unassisted if you are under the influence of alcohol.

How To Avoid Pedestrian Vehicle Accidents If You’re Driving

When you’re driving a vehicle, you can also get into pedestrian vehicle accidents. 

The rules to avoid accidents are pretty similar to how you can prevent accidents as a pedestrian. Whether you’re a driver or a pedestrian, it all boils down to discipline and mindfulness. 

As a driver, it is your sole responsibility to be careful and be law-abiding while on the road. 

Being a driver is never a walk in the park because you are keen to follow the rules and avoid accidents as much as possible.

Let’s talk about the things that could help you avoid getting involved in pedestrian vehicle accidents. Pedestrian vehicle accidents can be fatal and can be life-threatening to both the driver and the pedestrian.

• Keep your eyes peeled. Look out for people standing on the curbside. 
• Look out for those about to go into the crosswalks and pedestrians walking along the streets.
• Ensure that your eyesight is clear enough to see from afar. If not, get your eyes checked for the possibility of prescription glasses.  
• Suppose you struggle to drive at night due to the weather. Lighting and road conditions, use extreme caution at all times. 
• When making a turn or approaching a crosswalk, always slow down or be prepared to yield.
• Come to a complete stop when you pedestrians attempt to cross the streets.
• Do not pass vehicles that are stalled/stopped at a crosswalk. There may be people approaching that you don’t see.
• Do not ever drive under the influence of alcohol.
• Follow the speed limit everywhere (churches, school zones, and neighborhoods)