When it comes to teaching driver safety, most people tend to focus on vehicles rather than people. While knowing how to properly pilot your New England car hire is important, so too is knowing how to safely navigate around the many pedestrians that routinely walk the streets of Massachusetts.
Like many traffic fatalities, accidents that involve pedestrians are fully preventable. Even so, some 47,000 people were killed and close to 688,000 were injured in the U.S. while crossing or walking along a street between 2000 and 2009 (source National Highway Traffic Safety Administration).
On closer inspection, that’s one pedestrian accident ever 7 minutes.
Whether you’re in the driver’s seat of your New England car hire or strolling the streets as a pedestrian, make sure you keep your wits about you and remain alert. Here are some tips to help you stay safe on Massachusetts’ roadways.
Pedestrian Safety Tips
1) Stick to the Sidewalk
Streets are designated for vehicles, not pedestrians. Unless your legs can transform into wheels a la Inspector Gadget, stay on the sidewalk. Never walk on highways or in restricted zones.
2) Pay Attention to Posted Signs
Those “Do Not Walk” signs? They’re in place for a reason. Jaywalking is dangerous, so don’t do it.
3) Don’t Assume The Driver Sees You
Just because you have the right of way doesn’t mean that a driver will automatically give it to you. If you’re waiting to cross the street at a crosswalk, first try and catch the eye of the driver waiting at the light. And of course, remember what your Mom always told: look both ways before crossing the street.
4) Don’t Drink and Walk
You’d never drive a New England car hire under the influence, so why would you think it’s a good idea to walk a long distance while intoxicated? If you’re feeling a little tipsy do the responsible thing: call a taxi or use public transportation.
5) Don’t Walk Distracted
Put your phone down. Stay aware of your surroundings while walking to prevent accidents.
Driver Safety Tips
1) Expect the Unexpected
Pedestrians tend to pop up in the most unexpected places. As such, it’s crucial that New England car hire travelers pay attention to their surroundings at all times. Make sure to constantly scan the road ahead of you, including shoulders and sidewalks for unexpected jaywalkers.
2) Show Caution
There are plenty of places to anticipate pedestrians: crosswalks, school zones, downtown shopping districts. When you approach these areas in your New England car hire, be cautious. Drive slowly and stop for crossing pedestrians, even if they aren’t in the crosswalk.
3) Show Some Respect
Sure, you’re in a hurry. But flying off the handle at the car in front of you who’s yielding to let pedestrians cross the street isn’t going to get you where you’re going any faster. So don’t honk or attempt to pass them. Wait until the walkers have crossed and then continue on your way.
Safe roads are everyone’s responsibility – including pedestrians. Whether you’re walking or driving during your upcoming New England car hire vacation, remember to stay alert and aware of your surroundings. It could save your life.
Tags: New England car hire
