Pedestrian accidents are always tragic, and that’s especially true when they happen during the holidays.
A 33-year-old man was killed in Santa Fe on Christmas Eve this year when a car hit him during the evening hours. Police believe he may have been outside of a crosswalk in dark clothing and possibly wearing headphones, according to KRQE.
Earlier in December, two other pedestrians were hit in Tempe, AZ while using a crosswalk at a busy intersection. The driver failed to yield, and police suspect that low lighting and dark clothing were again contributing factors. Fortunately, the injuries in Tempe weren’t life-threatening.
Both stories serve as sobering reminders about the importance of driver and pedestrian safety, especially during busier traffic seasons.
Pedestrian Safety Tips for Arizonans
Whether you’re heading out in your car or on foot, please keep the following safety tips in mind this year:
- Always use sidewalks and crosswalks when traveling along roadways on foot.
- Pedestrians should wear bright-colored clothing.
- Drivers should exercise abundant caution when approaching crosswalks or intersections, or when traveling through pedestrian-heavy areas.
- Always obey traffic signage, crossing guards, and stoplights.
- Don’t speed up to make it through yellow lights. You could hit a pedestrian as the light turns red.
- Don’t enter a crosswalk if there is insufficient time for you to safely cross the road.
- Always look both ways before stepping into any roadway.
- When in doubt, wait.
- Take out earbuds or headphones when crossing streets. Drivers should also turn their music down in high-speed or heavy-traffic areas.
Stay Safe Out There
Pedestrians and high-speed traffic don’t mix. Whether you’re walking, biking, or driving, remember to respect the rules of the road. Transportation is an essential part of life, but it demands a serious commitment to safety. Let’s hope that 2015 sees fewer pedestrian accident injuries in Arizona than ever before.
