Nighttime Pedestrian Safety Tips

As a pedestrian, staying safe while walking at night can be difficult. Visibility is key in avoiding accidents and reducing the risk of injury, but it can be hard to stay visible when the sun has gone down. Our friends from Unidos Legales have put together some tips in order to reduce accidentes peatonales at night.

Wear Reflective Gear

Wearing reflective gear is one of the best ways to make sure you are visible to drivers. Reflective gear can come in many forms, such as vests, hats, bands and even shoes. When worn, these items reflect light from car headlights and make you easier to spot in low visibility conditions. Many brands make specialized reflective gear specifically designed for pedestrian safety. Be sure to check the label for the amount of reflectivity each item provides.

Walk in Well-Lit Areas

When possible, try to stick to sidewalks and pathways that are well-lit by street lamps. Even if you are walking during the day, it is still important to pay attention to the lighting around you. Make sure you can be seen from a distance by drivers. If you find yourself in an area with inadequate lighting, it is best to avoid it altogether. Instead, find a route that has plenty of light so that drivers can see you and avoid any potential accidents. Avoid shortcuts or alleys that may be dark as they can be hazardous for pedestrians. Also be aware of your surroundings. Look both ways before crossing the street and make sure all cars have stopped before crossing.

Avoid Walking Alone

Whenever possible, try to stay in groups and walk with a friend, family member, or co-worker. This will not only help you stay safe, but it can also be more enjoyable. Additionally, having a companion can help make walking late at night feel more secure and reassuring. If you have to walk alone, it’s a good idea to carry a flashlight to make yourself more visible.

Be Aware of Your Surroundings

Make sure to take note of any vehicles in the area and look out for cyclists or people who may be on the road. Pay attention to any intersections or crosswalks you need to cross, and always look both ways before crossing. If you are listening to music or talking on the phone while walking, make sure to keep one ear open so that you can hear any potential hazards coming your way. By paying attention to your surroundings, you will be able to avoid unexpected accidents.

Follow Traffic Laws

It is important to remember that pedestrians are subject to the same traffic laws as drivers. Always cross at a marked crosswalk and obey all traffic signals, including red lights and stop signs. When crossing a street, make sure you are visible by making eye contact with drivers before stepping out. If there is no sidewalk, walk facing traffic on the shoulder of the road and as far away from the road as possible. Do not cross between parked cars or jaywalk. Pedestrians should also remember to yield to drivers when appropriate and follow all directional signs. Whenever possible, avoid walking in the street and if doing so, be sure to stay in the designated lanes and watch for vehicles turning into your path.

While these tips will help keep you safe, you still may get into an accident — if you do, contact a lawyer near you for help.