California is a busy state, filled with residents who enjoy the outdoors. Manhattan Beach offers easy access to the ocean and pleasant weather year-round, which means pedestrians often fill the city’s roadways. Walking is an excellent way to exercise and provides many environmental benefits. However, walking instead of driving can pose hazards to the population.
While people can control their own actions, they cannot control the behavior of other people. This means pedestrians are forced to share the road with careless, negligent or even reckless motorists. Unfortunately, auto-pedestrian accidents occur all too often in California cities.
The good news is that pedestrians can do their own part to reduce the risks of being a victim of an auto-pedestrian accident. Below, you will find several effective tips to help you avoid becoming an accident victim.
— Do not let yourself be distracted by cellphones or other electronic devices.
— Only cross roadways at designated crosswalks or at intersections.
— Travel on sidewalks at all times if possible.
— If no sidewalk exists, walk on the shoulder of the road away from traffic.
— Always face oncoming traffic when walking.
— When walking in the dark, wear reflective clothing and carry a flashlight.
This advice should also be passed on to your children so that they can remain as safe as possible on the streets.
Auto-pedestrian accidents will always be a risk for those who enjoy walking. If you do become a victim, please consider speaking with a personal injury attorney. Doing so can equip you to seek the compensation you need while recovering from your accident injuries.
Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, “Walk This Way! Taking Steps for Pedestrian Safety,” accessed Jan. 18, 2017