College campuses are pedestrian-heavy areas. Limited parking, exercising individuals and students traveling between classes means there is a higher risk of encountering a person on foot.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, automobile accidents resulted in approximately one pedestrian death every 88 minutes in 2017. Doing a few things may help you minimize the likelihood of becoming involved in a pedestrian accident.
1. Yield right of way
Pedestrians have the right of way at marked and unmarked crosswalks if there are no lights and when allowed by lights at areas where they exist. Slow down when approaching crosswalks and intersections and yield to pedestrians at the appropriate intersections. Remain constantly alert for people wanting to cross.
2. Obey the speed limit
Following the speed limit is a fundamental rule of safe driving, but it is doubly applicable when traveling in an area with crowds of pedestrians. That small act of speeding may mean the difference between being able to stop in time and colliding with a person. There is a reason the speed limit is typically lower in residential areas and school zones.
3. Avoid distractions
Though texting is a significant source of distractions, there are other commonplace actions that can prevent you from focusing on the road. Something as simple as eating or unscrewing the cap off of a drink may lead to a wreck. Even changing the radio station leaves you in an unfocused state for a moment, which is enough time to hit a pedestrian. Avoid anything that requires you to take your eyes off the road.
Pedestrians and drivers share a responsibility to preserve the safety of both parties. Remaining aware and following the law are key parts of fulfilling this duty.
