Every year, approximately 5,000 to 6,000 pedestrians are killed in traffic crashes in the United States. More than 10 times that amount are treated in emergency rooms for nonfatal crash-related injuries.
These days, more and more walking and biking trails are popping up all over the place. In St. Tammany Parish, the Tammany Trace is a biking and walking trail converted from the old Illinois Central Railroad corridor, covering more than 30 miles through Covington, Abita Springs, Mandeville, Lacombe, and Slidell.
Of course, the main risk of being involved in an accident with a vehicle while enjoying a walking and biking trail comes when the trail crosses a road. And, while it may be true that pedestrians should have the right of way at those intersections, the fact is that pedestrians can take simple precautions to lower their risk of being involved in an accident.
You have probably heard of defensive driving, but what about defensive walking or biking? Probably not! While we can’t control the actions of a motorist, there are many things a pedestrian or bicyclist can do to avoid getting hit:
Don’t assume that cars will stop for you at intersections.
Even if you have the right of way or are protected by a traffic signal, make sure cars are stopped for you in each
direction before crossing.
Make eye contact with drivers.
Don’t assume that cars see you, even if they appear to be stopping for you.
Wear reflective clothing.
Make yourself as visible to motorists as possible, especially at night.
Unplug at intersections.
Take the earbuds out, listen and see what’s around you, and make sure you are paying attention at intersections.
Stop running and/or get off your bike at intersections.
Even if you are training for a marathon and don’t want to lose time, spare a moment at intersections for safety.
Anticipate that motorists will drive reckless around you.
By doing this, you err on the side of caution and will take safety precautions to avoid accidents.
Have You Been Injured In A Covington Area Bicycle Or Pedestrian Accident?
If you've been hurt in a pedestrian or bicycle accident you need to speak with an experienced pedestrian injury lawyer as soon as possible. Please contact me online or call my Covington office directly at 985.590.6182 to schedule your free consultation today. I help families throughout Louisiana including Mandeville, Slidell, Bogalusa, Franklinton, Hammond, New Orleans and Metairie.