Light Up Your Night: Tips to Stay Safe as a Pedestrian in Brighter Evenings
As the days grow longer and the nights brighter, pedestrians will be out in full force. With more people on the roads, it is important that you become aware of pedestrian safety tips for walking around in your neighbourhood or local area.
According to the 2023 PSNI report, there were 5,058 collisions in 2023 resulting in a total of 7,985 casualties. This comprised 71 fatalities, 880 people seriously injured and a further 7,034 people slightly injured. There were 35 vulnerable road users killed in 2023 (20 pedestrians, 13 motorcyclists and 2 pedal cyclist) – an increase of 9 in total on 2022 and 13 more than in 2021.
Here are a few of the top tips for pedestrian safety coming into brighter nights.
- Wear bright or reflective clothing: When walking at night, wear bright or reflective clothing that will make you more visible to drivers.
- Use pedestrian crossings: Always use pedestrian crossings when available, stop, look, listen and wait for the green light before crossing the road.
- Look both ways: Before crossing the road, look left and right to check for oncoming traffic. Don’t assume that drivers will see you, even if you have the right of way.
- Avoid distractions: Avoid using your phone or other electronic devices while walking, as this can distract you from your surroundings and make you more vulnerable to accidents.
- Walk on the footpath: If there is a footpath available, use it instead of walking on the road. If there is no footpath, walk on the side of the road facing oncoming traffic.
- Familiar routes: Use well-lit and well-travelled routes whenever possible. Avoid shortcuts through dark or deserted areas.
- Stay visible: If you are walking in a poorly lit area, use a flashlight or wear a headlamp to make yourself more visible to drivers.
- Walk in groups: Walking in groups can make you more visible to drivers and also provides added safety and security.
- Teach children about pedestrian safety: If you have children, teach them about pedestrian safety and always supervise them when they are walking near roads.
- Be aware of your surroundings: at all times and keep your head up, so you can spot potential hazards in your path.
By following these tips, you can help to ensure your own safety and the safety of others while walking at night.
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