Important pedestrian safety tips for drivers

Pedestrian accidents are some of the most common in Missouri, but can be avoided by all parties involved. Pedestrian safety is always a concern, and drivers can play a major role in reducing the number of pedestrian-motor vehicle accidents that occur on the roads of Missouri.

One of the most important safety tips for drivers is to responsibly be on the lookout for pedestrians when driving. Drivers cannot ignore the fact that pedestrians have to also follow the traffic lights because some do not. Drivers who willingly make themselves aware of pedestrians will be able to avoid accidents.

Never pass a stopped school bus. Not only is it against the law, but it is also a major safety issue. You don’t know where the children will be crossing, or if they are crossing at all. You also cannot anticipate that a child will look both ways before crossing after exiting a school bus.

Use caution when operating your vehicle in reverse, especially when doing so in a parking lot. Even if your vehicle comes equipped with a backup camera, do not rely solely on the camera to check for pedestrians. You need to use your mirrors and actually turn your head around to look out the back of your car.

Don’t just assume that a pedestrian will see your vehicle coming down the street. He or she could be distracted by vehicles coming from the other direction, from children or could be on the phone. Always try to make eye contact with a pedestrian and be clear you are either turning or giving them the right of way.

Even if a pedestrian crosses against a light or just darts out into the street, you should still give them the right of way to avoid a nasty accident. Just because they have broken the law it doesn’t mean you can just barrel towards them in your car.

Visit our page today to learn more about pedestrian accidents and your rights as a driver.