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Pedestrians struck at higher rates

Mar 30, 2019 | Blog, Car Accidents, Car and Truck Accident Injuries, Car and Truck Accidents, Injuries

Home » Pedestrians struck at higher rates

Pedestrian Injury Lawyer, O'Fallon, ILWhen you want to go out for a stroll, you need to pay attention to what is going on around you. Vehicle-versus-pedestrian incidents continue to rise, and in Illinois, it means you can wind up seriously injured or worse. As struck by car injury lawyers in O’Fallon, IL we want you to understand the risks.

With the rates of pedestrian strikes so high, what, if anything, can you do to protect yourself from becoming a statistic? Take a look at some of the ways you can keep yourself safe as a pedestrian.

Stay alert

One of the greatest things about walking is the exercise it provides. Whether they walk because they have to or want to, sometimes pedestrians don earbuds and continue on their way. If you have music blaring through your ears, you will not hear a vehicle approach from any angle. It is important that you stay alert as much as possible during your exercise. You want to have every opportunity to avoid an accident.

Steer clear of construction zones

Depending on where you live, you may feel like construction zones surround you. In some cities and towns across Illinois, the construction boom has led to local economies growing, as well as the population. However, construction zones can become hazardous as a pedestrian. You need to watch out for objects that can strike you by falling from above, or cars swerving to avoid workers and cones that may clip you.

Only walk during the day or in well-lit areas

One of the most dangerous times to go out for a stroll is after dark. Many rural areas do not have enough streetlights, and cities do not always have fully functioning ones. Therefore, walking in the evening can prove hazardous. Cars may not have the best line of sight to see you. Headlights, even LED ones, do not illuminate the pathway too far ahead.

When you go out for a walk, the main piece of advice you should take along with you is keep your eyes open. Look out for cars and obstacles that may block a driver’s view of you as you go. Staying defensive may wind up keeping you from serious harm.

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