Many parts of Nashville are pedestrian-friendly. But no matter how wide the sidewalks are or how plentiful the crosswalks are, walking near traffic still carries many risks. If you regularly walk along Nashville’s streets, keep these tips in mind to stay safe:
- Keep your phone in your pocket or purse: Everyone knows that distracted driving is extremely dangerous, and the primary cause of it is cell phones. Distraction is also dangerous when you’re walking, as you need to be 100% aware of your surroundings. To stay safe, avoid looking at your phone, and if you need to send a text message or make a call, do so in a safe location away from the road.
- Keep your hearing focused on your surroundings, not entertainment: It’s vital to be able to hear what’s going on around you while you’re walking. Relying solely on sight to locate nearby vehicles and approaching traffic means you aren’t getting the full picture of what’s happening. Avoid listening using earbuds or listening to music or podcasts while walking.
- Walk facing towards traffic whenever possible: When sidewalks are available on both sides of the street, you should always choose the side that has you walking towards traffic. Walking in this direction gives you more time to react to vehicles that are approaching your direction, and it also makes it easier for approaching drivers to notice you, as they can see your face.
After a pedestrian accident, it’s important to get an experienced Nashville pedestrian accident lawyer on your side right away. At Ponce Law, we help injured pedestrians get the compensation they’re owed. Contact us today for a free consultation.
