With the summer months right around the corner, you may find yourself spending more time outdoors in Tennessee. From riding your bicycle to walking to and from work, it’s enjoyable to spend time in the fresh air.
However, you don’t want to enjoy yourself so much that you overlook your safety. There are many steps you can take to protect yourself from a pedestrian accident this summer, such as the following:
- Obey all signs and signals: For example, if a “don’t walk” signal appears at an intersection, stay where you are until it changes.
- Use marked crosswalks: Not only does this ensure that you’re crossing in a safe place, but it gives drivers extra warning that pedestrians may be on the road.
- Never dart into traffic: Even if you’re in a hurry, stay on the sidewalk until it’s safe to cross the street.
Along with the above, you can enhance your safety by understanding the many mistakes drivers make that cause an accident. These include:
- Distracted driving: Never assume that a driver sees you, as they may be preoccupied with something else, such as their cellphone or navigation system.
- Reckless driving: This takes on many forms, including speeding, failure to obey traffic signals and signs, and neglecting to stop for pedestrians in crosswalks.
- Driving under the influence: Alcohol or drugs impair a person’s ability to make sound decisions, thus increasing the risk of an accident with another vehicle or pedestrian.
- Drowsy driving: Anyone can become tired when behind the wheel, but this is particularly true among truckers and those who work long shifts or at night.
- Disregard for traffic conditions: In a crowded city, for example, drivers will contend with changing traffic conditions. Failure to alter their driving style can result in an accident.
With this knowledge, you’ll feel better about your ability to protect yourself from a pedestrian accident this summer.
If you’re injured in a car-pedestrian accident, call 911 for immediate help. Once paramedics arrive, they can stabilize your injuries and transport you to a local hospital.
As soon as you’re up to it, contact your insurance company and obtain a copy of the police report. Doing these things will help you better understand what went wrong and how to seek compensation for your injuries and other damages.
