10 Pedestrian Safety Tips
- Look both ways when approaching an intersection. When you're walking, know what's going on around you. Look left...look right...then look left again before crossing the street.
- Walk defensively . Be ready for unexpected events. Cars can surprise you...you may think the driver's slowing down or stopping...but be prepared in case he or she runs a stop sign or traffic light.
- Avoid Distractions . Cell phones and portable music devices can distract you from watching for hazards, especially in a crosswalk.
- Cross streets at intersections whenever possible . Walking a few feet farther to get to a crosswalk is much safer than crossing in the middle of the block. Motorists are not expecting pedestrians where there's no crosswalk.
- Look for signs or signals at intersections . Use the push buttons for crossing protection at signalized intersections...follow the "WALK/DON'T WALK" lights - they're set up to help you cross safely.
- Don't dart out from between parked vehicles . Motorists aren't looking for pedestrians between cars and dashing into traffic from there is dangerous.
- Be careful in parking lots . Parking lots can be as dangerous as streets. Watch out for parked cars that may suddenly back out of a space. Look toward the driver's seat of a car you're walking behind to see if someone's ready to drive away. Notice brake lights and back-up lights...if they're lit, the vehicle's probably ready to move.
- Walk facing oncoming traffic . When there are no sidewalks, walk near the curb or, if necessary, off the road.
- Keep your view of traffic clear at all times . A pedestrian needs to be able to see cars around them. Don't block your view with packages, umbrellas or other objects.
- Wear light colored or white clothing after dark . Why? Drivers can see you better and headlights and streetlight reflect off lighter clothing. If possible, choose clothing with special reflective elements for younger pedestrians.
Be Patient - Be Considerate – Be Safe
ICBC Road Safety