Winter Safety Tips For Pedestrians
Winter can be dangerous for pedestrians. Slippery walkways and reduced visibility can lead to increased pedestrian accidents during the winter months.
We have compiled a list of safety tips to keep you safe this winter.
Avoid Distractions
Distractions can be dangerous for pedestrians. Answering your phone or sending a text means you’re less aware of nearby traffic. You may not notice that a driver isn’t slowing down despite your indication to cross the road. The more aware you are, the better you can respond to dangerous situations.
Wear Bright Colors
Wearing bright colors ensures that you’re seen by drivers on the road. The days are shorter and get darker earlier in the winter months. Adding in snow and ice can make it impossible for drivers to notice pedestrians. Wear bright colors or add a piece of reflective tape to your coat.
Wear Shoes with Good Traction
Slip and fall accidents are always a possibility for a pedestrian. Slippery walkways and unsalted sidewalks can increase your risk of slipping and falling. If you plan to walk during the winter months, make sure you invest in a good pair of shoes with reliable traction.
Plan Ahead
Planning ahead is also important if you rely on your feet to get around during winter. Check the weather before leaving and make alternative plans if it calls for a lot of snow or freezing rain. It can also be helpful to plan your route ahead of time, taking care to choose ones with less traffic and optimal visibility.
Cross at Approved Intersections
Jaywalking can be especially dangerous during the winter months. Drivers already have a harder time locating pedestrians, and crossing in the middle of the road can make it even more difficult. Always cross at approved intersections and wait for the signal to inform you that it’s safe to cross.
Stay Far Away from the Roads
Reduce your risk by walking on the part of the sidewalk that’s the furthest from the road. Stay alert and carefully move around any other pedestrians who may be in your path. Avoid stepping into the street to get around other pedestrians. As a general rule, choose the right track on the sidewalk, similar to how you would navigate a shopping mall.
Injured in a Pedestrian Accident?
Pedestrian accidents are usually severe. The impact of a heavy vehicle on a single pedestrian can lead to painful, expensive injuries. The first and most important thing to do following a pedestrian accident is to receive medical care. Once you’re safe and on your way to recovery, consider contacting a personal injury lawyer.
Drivers should always give pedestrians the right of way. This means that it’s also their responsibility to avoid distractions and to be aware of any pedestrians. If they fail to do so, they may be guilty of negligence. This may mean you’re eligible to seek compensation for your damages, including medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and diminished earnings. A New Jersey personal injury lawyer can help you file your claim while sticking to the state’s statute of limitations.
Contact a Teaneck Personal Injury Lawyer to Discuss Your Pedestrian Accident Case in New Jersey
Did you or a loved one sustain serious injuries due to an accident in New Jersey? Don’t let the medical bills pile up while you wait for the negligent party or their insurance company to do the right thing. Right now, you need an aggressive personal injury attorney on your side, fighting to get you the compensation you need, want, and deserve. The skilled attorneys at Birkhold & Maider represent clients injured because of an accident in Essex County, Hudson County, Mercer County, Union County, and throughout New Jersey. Call (973) 947-4670 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a free consultation about your case. We have an office conveniently located at 189 Franklin Avenue, Suite #1, Nutley, NJ 07710, as well as an office in Hamilton, NJ.
The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney-client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.
