Pedestrian Safety: Road Safety Awareness Part-2

Pedestrian Safety require urgent attention and actions as pedestrians are at high risk of being involved in a road accidents which consequences can be severe. While some accidents are inevitable, many can be prevented if both drivers and pedestrians follow basic road safety rules.

This article will illustrate some essential road safety tips & suggestions to keep the pedestrians safe at the workplace as well as on the public roads.

Table of Contents

1. Road Safety for Pedestrians: A Comprehensive Pedestrian Safety Tips & Guide

Do you know that every year millions of people either die or injured as a result of road traffic accident worldwide. Amongst these millions of people, about 22% (which mean every 5^th person) of all road traffic fatalities are pedestrians as per the statistics of World Health Organization (WHO).

This indicates that pedestrians are vulnerable road users and being aware of the risk as well as taking necessary precautions are very important as a pedestrian to avoid road traffic accident or becoming a victim of it.

2. Some shocking facts and statistics about Road Accident involving Pedestrians:

It is quite difficult to get worldwide statistics on Road Accident involving Pedestrians due to different levels of reporting in various countries/continents. Below are some shocking facts and statistics from a few countries which indicates that ‘Pedestrian Safety’ is a global concern.

India has probably one of the highest rates of pedestrian fatalities in the world, with an estimated 25 pedestrians dying every day in road accidents. In 2021, total 9,462 pedestrians were killed in road accidents which is 19% of total road accident fatality (Ministry of Road Transport and Highways).

China: In 2019, 26,181 pedestrians were killed in road accidents in China, accounting for 33% of all road deaths, according to the (Ministry of Public Security).

USA: In 2019, 6,205 pedestrians were killed in traffic crashes representing a 5% increase from the previous year (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration – NHTSA).

Australia: In 2019, 607 pedestrians died in road accidents accounting for 15% of all road deaths (Australian Institute of Health and Welfare).

United Kingdom: In 2019, there were 470 pedestrian fatalities representing 27% of all road deaths (Department for Transport).

The above statistics illustrate the importance of pedestrian safety and the urgent need for the effective measures to reduce the number of road accident involving pedestrians

By following road safety rules and best practices, we can all work towards creating safer roads and communities for everyone.

Disclaimer: The above facts/figures are general in nature and for information only to indicate the growing concern related to pedestrian safety. We have taken utmost care and attention to ensure that these statistics are accurate and current, however, we do not guarantee it. HSEC Awareness website accepts no liability for this information.

3. Understanding the Risks of Road Accident involving Pedestrians:

Risk realization (understanding the risk) and situational awareness is one of the first and foremost important steps staying safe. Although it is difficult to predict at which place or at what time accident will take place. However, the risks are higher in urban areas with heavy traffic, where pedestrians are more likely to share the road.

In addition to the urban areas, road accident involving pedestrian can also happen in the workplace such as in factories, warehouses, construction sites etc.

4. Road Safety Tips for Pedestrians while on the Public Roads:

Be Aware and Follow the Rules of the Road: This is one of the basic step but quite effective in preventing accident. All pedestrians should use designated crossing points (wherever available), and follow traffic signals and signs. Always cross at a marked crosswalk or intersection.

Be Visible: Wear bright or reflective clothing during the day and at night, and carry a flashlight (if possible) when walking in low-light conditions.

Stay Alert: Don’t be distracted and avoid using mobile phones or other electronic devices when walking. Keep your ears open for traffic sounds so that you can take prompt action if necessary.

Walk on the Walkways or Pathways: Where possible, walk on the road side walkways or pathways. If there is no sidewalk, walk facing traffic (this is recommended, however check the rules of your workplace or country), and as far away from traffic as possible.

Stay Sober: Avoid walking under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Impaired judgment can increase the risk of accidents.

5. Road Safety Tips for Pedestrians in the Workplace

Be Aware and Follow the Rules: Make yourself aware about workplace safety rules and regulations and follow them. This includes wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) as and when required.

Keep Walkways Clear: Ensure that walkways are clear of any obstacles or debris that could lead to an accident e.g. slip, trip & fall. Do not through or keep any items on the walkway which may become an obstruction for other users.

Stay Alert: Always be aware of your surroundings and avoid distractions. Listen for warning signals and/or horn, and be aware of movement of any heavy vehicle, machinery or equipment.

Report Hazards: Report any hazards, near misses or incidents to your supervisor immediately.

Use Designated Walkways: Use designated walkways and stay within the dedicated areas for pedestrian wherever available.

6. Road Safety Tips for Drivers to Keep Pedestrians Safe

Drivers also have an important role to keep pedestrians safe while on the public roads or in the workplace. Below are the few safety tips for drivers:

Reduce Speed or Slow Down: Slowdown in areas with heavy pedestrian traffic, school zones, and residential areas etc.

Look Out for Pedestrians: Always keep a lookout for pedestrians and be extra cautious at intersections and crosswalks.

Give Pedestrians Space: Allow enough space for pedestrians, especially when passing on narrow streets.

Avoid Distracted Driving: Don’t be distracted. Avoid using mobile phones or other electronic devices while driving.

Check Your Blind Spots: Always check your blind spots before turning or changing lanes.

7. Road Safety Tips for the Vulnerable Groups as Pedestrians:

Children, Elderly and disabled personnel are considered as vulnerable groups when it comes to pedestrian safety. Below are safety tips for them:

Children and pedestrian safety: It is very important to teach children about road safety and pedestrian rules from a young age. They should be accompanied by adults when crossing the road and encouraged to walk on designated pedestrian walkways. Parents should set an example for their children by following the above tips.

Elderly and Disabled Pedestrians: Elderly and disabled pedestrians may face the difficulty to cross the road compare to other young and healthy road users. These people might have reduced mobility or sensory impairments, making them more vulnerable to accidents. It is essential to provide additional assistance and support for these pedestrians, such as installing wheelchair ramps or audio signals at pedestrian crossings.

8. How to cross the road safely where there is no traffic signal or zebra crossing:

If you encounter with a situation where you need to cross the road in an area without a traffic signal or zebra crossing, follow the below tips to cross the road safely:

Look for a safe and visible crossing point: Find out a place where the visibility is good and there is enough space to cross. Avoid crossing the road from behind vehicles or other obstructions, as this can make it difficult for drivers to see you.

Assess the traffic flow: Asses the traffic flow prior to crossing the road and ensure there is approaching vehicle. Be cautious and watch out for any vehicles turning onto the road you want to cross.

Make eye contact with drivers: If there is a vehicle approaching, first make an eye contact with the driver to ensure that you are visible and your intention to cross the road is understood by the driver. This can help to avoid any confusion and ensure that the driver is aware of your presence.

Use hand signals: If you need to cross the road in front of a vehicle, make sure to use hand signals to indicate that you are about to cross. This can be done by raising your hand, palm outwards, to signal to the driver to stop.

Cross at a steady pace: Once you have assessed the traffic flow and determined that it is safe to cross, do so at a steady pace. Avoid running or walking too slowly, as this can put you at risk of being hit by a vehicle.

Look both ways: Always look both ways before crossing the road. This ensures that you can spot any vehicles that may not be visible from one direction.

By following these simple guidelines, any pedestrians can cross the road safely in areas without traffic signals or zebra crossings. Remember that road safety is a shared responsibility, and it is up to all road users to be vigilant and cautious to ensure everyone’s safety.

9. What measures can be taken at the workplace to keep the pedestrian safe?

Pedestrian safety is not just limited to public roads and highways. Workplace safety is equally important, and employers have a responsibility to ensure the safety of pedestrians on their premises. Here are some measures that can be taken at the workplace to keep pedestrians safe:

Provide pedestrian walkways and ensure it is clearly marked: Provision of pedestrian walkway and ensuring it is clearly marked can help prevent accidents. These walkways should be well-lit and kept free from obstacles and debris.

Traffic signs and signals: Installing traffic signs and signals can help regulate the flow of traffic and keep pedestrians safe. Signs should be clearly visible and easy to understand, and signals should be timed to allow pedestrians enough time to cross safely.

Speed Limits: Ensure that speed limits are clearly marked and enforced to ensure compliance. Implementing speed limits for vehicles on the premises can help reduce the risk of accidents.

Training and education: Providing training and education to both employees and visitors on pedestrian safety can help raise awareness and prevent accidents. This can include information on safe walking practices, traffic rules, and the importance of being aware of one’s surroundings.

Safety barriers and guardrails: Separate the pedestrian walkway from moving vehicles and other hazards where ever practicable and possible. This can be achieved by installing safety barriers and guardrails.

Regular inspections and maintenance: Regular inspections and maintenance of the workplace can help identify potential hazards and ensure that the premises are kept in a safe condition.

By taking these measures, employers can help to create a safe and secure workplace for pedestrians. It is essential that both employers and employees work together to ensure the safety of everyone on the premises.

It can be concluded that pedestrians are vulnerable road users who need to be aware of the risks and take necessary precautions. Both drivers and pedestrians have a shared responsibility in ensuring road safety. By following the above safety tips, risk of accidents can be greatly reduced thus making the roads safer for everyone.

Let us all do our part to promote road safety and make our communities safer places to live and work.

10. Frequently Asked Questions – FAQ on Pedestrian Safety and Knowledge Check Questions-Answers:

Q1: What is the most common cause of pedestrian accidents?

Ans2: The most common cause of pedestrian accidents is driver inattention. This includes distracted driving, speeding, and failure to practice the right of way. Pedestrian inattention or distraction also contribute on this.

Q2: What is the best way to stay safe while walking on public roads or workplace premises?

Ans2: The best way to stay safe while walking on public roads or workplace premises is to be aware of your surroundings, use designated crossings, and make yourself visible.

Q3: What is the safest way for pedestrians to cross the road?

Ans3: The safest way for pedestrians to cross the road is at a designated pedestrian crossing, such as a zebra crossing or traffic signal.

Q4: What should pedestrians do before crossing the road?

Ans4: Pedestrians should stop at the curb or edge of the road and look left, right, and left again before crossing the road. They should also make eye contact with drivers and ensure that the driver has seen them before crossing.

Q5: What should pedestrians do when there is no traffic signal or zebra crossing to cross the road?

Ans5: Pedestrians should look for a safe and visible crossing point, assess the traffic flow, make eye contact with drivers, use hand signals, cross at a steady pace, and look both ways before crossing the road.

Q6: What should pedestrians do when crossing the road in low light conditions or at night?

Ans6: Pedestrians should wear bright or reflective clothing or accessories when crossing the road at night or in low light conditions.

Q7: Why should pedestrians avoid using mobile phones and/or electronic devices while walking?

Ans7: Use of mobile phones and/or other electronic devices can distract pedestrians while being on the public road resulting them to be unaware of their surroundings.

Q8: What should children be taught about pedestrian safety and at what age?

Ans8: Children should be taught about road safety and pedestrian safety from a young age (as early age as possible when they are able to understand their surroundings). Importance of using designated crossings, walking on pedestrian walkways and other road safety tips and techniques are the few topics for education.

Q9: How can I teach my children about pedestrian safety?

Ans9: You can teach your children about pedestrian safety by setting a good example, walking with them and pointing out safe pedestrian practices, and practicing crossing the road with them.

Q10: How can I ensure my child’s safety while walking to school?

Ans10: You can ensure your child’s safety while walking to school by walking with them or arranging for a walking group with other parents. Always ensure they are using dedicated crocking point and pathways (where available) for walking.

Q11: Why are elderly and disabled pedestrians particularly vulnerable to accidents?

Ans11: Elderly and disabled pedestrians may have reduced mobility or sensory impairments, making them more vulnerable to accidents.

Q12: What should drivers do to ensure pedestrian safety?

Ans12: Drivers should give way to pedestrians at crosswalks and pedestrian crossings, obey speed limits, and avoid distracted driving.

Q13: What should pedestrians do when there are no sidewalks or pedestrian paths?

Answer13: When there are no sidewalks or dedicated pedestrian pathways, pedestrians should walk as far off the road as possible.

Q14: Why is it essential to be visible when walking on public roads or workplace premises?

Ans14: Being visible means driver can see you thus adjust their driving. Therefore, it is important to be visible while walking on public roads or workplace premises in order to reduce the risk of accidents.

Q15: What measures can be taken at the workplace to keep pedestrians safe?

Ans15: Following measures can be taken at the workplace to keep pedestrians safe: clearly marked and well-lit pedestrian walkways; traffic signs and signals; speed limits; training and education; safety barriers and guardrails; regular inspections and maintenance of the road and walkways.

Q16: What should pedestrians do if they are walking on the side of the road?

Ans16: Pedestrians should walk facing traffic when walking on the side of the road. This is a recommendation, however, confirm the rules at your workplace and/or country you work/live in.

Q17: What should pedestrians do before crossing the road or entering a crosswalk?

Ans17: Pedestrians should make eye contact with drivers before crossing the road or entering a crosswalk.

Q18: What should pedestrians do when they need to cross the road but there is no designated crossing?

Ans18: Pedestrians should look both ways and cross the road when it is safe to do so.

Q19: What should drivers do when approaching a pedestrian crossing or crosswalk?

Ans19: Drivers should slow down and prepare to stop when approaching a pedestrian crossing or crosswalk.

Q20: What should pedestrians do if a driver does not give them the right of way?

Ans20: Pedestrians should stop and wait for the driver to give them the right of way, and not attempt to cross the road until it is safe to do so.

Q21: What should pedestrians do if they are walking in a group?

Ans21: Pedestrians walking in a group should walk in a single file and use designated crossings.

Q22: What is jaywalking?

Ans22: Jaywalking is crossing the road in an illegal or unsafe manner, such as not using designated crossings or not obeying traffic signals.

Q23: Can pedestrians be fined for jaywalking?

Ans23: Yes, pedestrians can be fined for jaywalking. Many countries consider Jay walking as a violation of traffic laws and they have determined suitable legal actions for this act including fines.

Q24: Can pedestrians cross the road anywhere they want?

Ans24: No, it’s not advisable and pedestrians should only cross the road at designated crossings such as crosswalks or pedestrian signals. Many countries have fines and other legal implication if someone determine to cross the road other than the dedicated crossing point.

Q25: How can workplaces promote pedestrian safety?

Ans25: There are several ways to promote pedestrian safety in the workplaces. Some of the ways are: ensuring clear pedestrian paths and crossings, providing pedestrian safety training, and enforcing speed limits for vehicles etc.

Q26: Can I listen to music while walking on the road?

Ans26: It is not recommended to listen to music while walking on the road as it can distract you from your surroundings and increase the risk of accidents.

Q27: What should I do if there is construction on the road and there are no sidewalks or pedestrian paths?

Ans27: If there is construction on the road and there are no sidewalks or pedestrian paths, you should try to find an alternate route or walk as far off the road as possible.

Q28: What should I do if I encounter a distracted driver while walking?

Ans28: If you encounter a distracted driver while walking, you should move out of their way. Report this to your Supervisor or Manager at the workplace. If on public road, you may report to traffic police on their helpline number or any other Competent Authority of the area you live. Remember, reporting such behaviour may save someone’s live so don’t hesitate to do so.

Q29: Can pets be walked on the road?

Ans29: Pets should not be walked on the road as it can be dangerous for both the pet and pedestrians.

Q30: Can pedestrians walk on highways or expressways?

Ans30: Pedestrians are not allowed to walk on highways or expressways.

Q31: Can pedestrians cross the road diagonally?

Ans31: Pedestrians should always cross the road in a straight line, never diagonally because it increases the travel distance thus you will spend more time on the road which mean greater risk to have contact with oncoming vehicle.

Q32: How can I avoid distractions while walking on the road?

Ans32: You can avoid distractions while walking on the road by keeping your phone and other devices put away, and staying aware of your surroundings.

Q33: Can pedestrians cross the road when the “Don’t Walk” signal is flashing?

Ans33: Pedestrians should never cross the road when the “Don’t Walk” signal is flashing.

Q34: How can I make sure I am following the pedestrian laws in my area?

Ans34: You can check your local government or traffic department or ministry of Transport’s website for information on pedestrian laws in your area.

Q35: What should I do if a driver does not give me the right of way?

Ans35: You should stop and wait for the driver to give you the right of way, and not attempt to cross the road until it is safe to do so.

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