Walking from point A to point B is not only environmentally friendly, but it can also be beneficial to your health. Walking is a low-intensity and low-impact form of exercise that can help individuals along the path to a healthy lifestyle. Although there are many benefits to walking, pedestrians face a huge risk when navigating the streets of Wisconsin. In fact, according to the Wisconsin Department of Transportation, one pedestrian was injured or killed every 7.1 hours in 2011. Additionally, there were a total of 1, 216 pedestrian injuries and deaths from pedestrian accidents in the same 12-month period. Being injured in an accident as a pedestrian can result in serious injuries due to the disparity in size between a vehicle and a person.
Pedestrian Safety Tips
Accidents may not always be preventable, but the following tips can keep you safe as a pedestrian while you are sharing the road with other vehicles:
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Follow the rules of the road and refrain from engaging in any unpredictable behavior;
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Walk on sidewalks whenever possible;
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When there is no sidewalk, walk facing traffic and keep a safe distance;
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Be alert and do not get distracted by electronic devices;
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Use cross streets and crosswalks when crossing the road;
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If you are unsure whether a driver sees you, try and make eye contact with the driver and move out of the way;
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Refrain from walking after consuming any drugs or alcohol because this could impair your judgment and lessen your reaction time;
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When walking in a residential area, be aware of cars backing out of driveways; and
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When walking at night, wear reflective clothing or carry a flashlight so that you are visible to other drivers.
Please note that if a car hits you, you should seek medical attention immediately.
Consult a Wisconsin Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
If you or a loved one has been the victim of an accident as a pedestrian, contact one of our experienced Appleton pedestrian accident lawyers or Green Bay pedestrian accident lawyers at [[title]] We have offices in Green Bay, Appleton, and Oshkosh and can help you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries.