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How To Be a Safe Pedestrian

Car accidents are all too common and often tragic for those involved. People who drive cars are always burdened by the fact that one day they will probably be involved in an accident. However, people who choose not to drive cars and walk or ride bikes to get from place to place often do not think of how dangerous it really is for them.

Did you know that about 10% of all traffic fatalities in South Carolina are pedestrians! Utamu Obaji Mfume was one of the many who have tragically lost their lives this year after being struck by a motor vehicle. On Friday, July 2, 2010, Mfume was killed on Monticello Road near Walton Road in Richland County, South Carolina. The man was walking west on Monticello, while 23-year old Floyd Boutknight was traveling east on his motorcycle. Mfume entered the roadway and was tragically struck by Boutknight. While Boutknight was not injured in the accident, Mfume died from his injuries.

As a pedestrian, it is important that you take any and all safety precautions ythat you can. Let’s face it- a pedestrian who is hit by a car or motorcycle is obviously more likely to be injured or die than the person operating the vehicle. Here are some tips that could keep you safe as you walk:

1) Stay away from freeways and interstates. There is a reason why pedestrians and bikes are prohibited. Cars are traveling at high rates of speed and if struck, death is highly likely.

2) Walk facing traffic. If there isn’t a sidewalk, walk off to the side of the road facing traffic. This makes sure that you see the car as it is heading toward you, allowing you to get out of the way if needed.

3) Don’t wear dark colors at night. If you wear bright colors, like white, it is more likely that a driver will see you at night. With dark colors, you just blend in.

4) Don’t walk under the influence. While everyone says not to drive under the influence (and they are right), walking under the influence can be dangerous too. You could inadvertently enter roadways from sidewalks, cross the street when traffic is coming, etc.

5) Watch out for trucks. Large trucks often need more space to turn, thus, when standing on a corner, it is important to stand back as far as possible to avoid being hit.

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