11 tips for staying safe while walking near traffic

• Use sidewalks whenever available.

• Obey traffic signals.

• Cross streets at a corner, using traffic signals and crosswalks whenever possible. Most pedestrians are struck when crossing somewhere other than an intersection.

• Always stop at the edge of a parked car, curb, or vehicle before walking out into traffic.

• Look left-right-left before crossing a street and continue looking while crossing.

• Make eye contact with drivers prior to crossing in front of them. Don’t assume that because you can see the driver, the driver can see you.

• Never cross mid-block.

• If you must walk along the roadway, walk facing traffic as far to the left as possible.

• If you must walk at night or in the early morning, wear reflective clothing and carry a flashlight. Most pedestrian deaths occur between 6 p.m. and midnight.

• Never allow children under 10 to cross streets alone. Young children do not have the skills to accurately judge traffic risks.

• Older adults need to allow for enough time to safely cross the street.

When a pedestrian is struck by a vehicle, over 80 percent of the time the pedestrian is killed or seriously injured. By following these safety tips, you can help prevent serious injury or death.

Not paid for with state funds.
Paid for with funding from the U.S. Department of Transportation.