Our roads are designed to be safe and everyone has a responsibility to make sure they are used in a safe and responsible manner. This doesn’t just apply to drivers and cyclists. It also applies to you as a pedestrian.
Recent statistics show that there has been an increase in road casualties affecting pedestrians over the age of 60. To help reduce road casualties Go Safe Glasgow wants to encourage drivers to look out for vulnerable road users and drive at the correct speed, supporting the mandatory 20 mph limits in the city centre and residential areas.
As a pedestrian you need to play your part too – so stop, look, listen and think before you step out!
Here are Go Safe Glasgow’s top tips for pedestrians:
1. Avoid crossing between parked cars
Sometimes your only option is to cross between parked cars. Make sure you find the safest place to cross with good visibility in each direction.
2. Avoid crossing at, or near, large trucks or vehicles
You may think crossing in between stationary traffic is safe. However, be aware that if you cross at the front or side of a large vehicle or truck, the driver of that vehicle may not be able to see you.
3. Don’t cross where traffic is turning
Don’t assume a driver can see you. Every vehicle has a blind spot and if you step out into the vehicle blind spot, you will be hidden from view. Wait for a proper gap in traffic to cross safely.
4. Don’t get stuck in the middle
If you are trying to cross a large or busy road don’t expect drivers to slow down or wave you across. Always use a pedestrian crossing or island in the middle of the road.
5. Don’t rush– plan ahead
Late for a bus or an appointment? Running across the road increases the chances of a driver not seeing you as well as increasing the chance of tripping or falling, so plan your journey and take your time.
6. Avoid crossing if you can’t see clearly
Avoid bends where you can’t see traffic and it can’t see you. Take time to walk to a spot where you can see clearly in both directions and where you can be seen clearly by other road users.
7. Alcohol can affect your judgement
Even one drink can affect your judgement of speed and distance and thats when accidents happen. Plan how you intend to get home, cross at a safe place, book a taxi, get a bus or train and don’t take risks.
8. Concentrate
Everyone can have a short lapse in concentration, especially when tired. When you step off a bus, or out of a shop, switch on to pedestrian mode and look out for traffic! Consider a break if you have been walking or shopping for a while.
9. Don’t use your mobile on the move
Switch off your mobile when you are crossing the road, try not to update your blog, tweet your whereabouts or post on social media – it can all wait until you are safely across the road.
10. Don’t follow other people
If you are waiting for the green man to signal and you see someone starting to cross, don’t assume the green man is on and follow. Always check the signal before you cross.
11. Be seen
Wearing dark clothing when it is dark will make you less visible –try to wear something light or bright.
12. Don’t block your view
Hoods and umbrellas can block your view. Make sure you check in both directions before you cross.
For more information and tips for staying safe as a pedestrian click here.
