Head Up, Phone Down

Distracted walking incidents are on the rise, and everyone with a cell phone is at risk. According to a Governors Highway Safety Association report, nearly 6,000 pedestrians were struck and killed by motor vehicles in 2017. We are losing focus on our surroundings and putting our safety – and the safety of others – at risk. The solution: Stop using phones while walking, and not just in crosswalks and intersections.

Walking in Winter Conditions

You may feel safe when walking on the sidewalk or waiting on a corner to cross a street, but during the winter months, this is not necessarily true. Vehicles can lose control more easily on slick roads, sliding into intersections, across crosswalks, and onto sidewalks. Stay very aware of the movements of traffic, and when crossing the street, observe the traffic before you take the risk of stepping out. Don’t step out in front of oncoming cars, assuming they will stop. Below are some additional tips that should always be followed to prevent serious injuries while walking:

• Look left, right and left again before crossing the street; looking left a second time is necessary because a car can cover a lot of distance in a short amount of time.
• Make eye contact with drivers of oncoming vehicles to make sure they see you.
• Be aware of drivers even when you’re in a crosswalk; vehicles have blind spots.
• Don’t wear headphones while walking.
• Never use a cell phone or other electronic device while walking.
• If your view is blocked, move to a place where you can see oncoming traffic.
• Never rely on a car to stop.
• Only cross at designated crosswalks.
• Wear bright and/or reflective clothing.
• Walk in groups.

BONUS: Here are 5 tips for brushing off your car in the winter:

1. Start your car before you brush.
2. Make sure your defrosters are on.
3. Get a quality snow brush/ice scraper.
4. Get ALL of the snow and ice off your car before you drive.
5. Make sure you can see out of every window AND other drivers can see you.