Walk This Way: Pedestrian Safety Tips

Walking is something we all do, whether we're heading to school, meeting up with friends, or just taking a stroll around the neighborhood. But here's the thing—no matter where you're walking, safety should always be your top priority. When you’re sharing the road with cars, bikes, and buses, a little extra caution can go a long way.

Here are some tips that’ll keep you safe and sound with every step. Follow these tips when holding hands with younger kids and share them with older kids and teens who are out on their own.

• Use sidewalks whenever you can. They’re the safest place to walk.
• No sidewalk? Walk facing traffic and as far away from cars as possible.
• Stay focused. Keep your eyes and ears open—no distractions like earbuds or texting while you walk. If you need to use your phone, stop in a safe place to do so and put the phone away before continuing your walk.

• Be bright, be seen. When walking at night, it's essential to make yourself visible. Wear bright, reflective clothing, and consider reflective accessories like wristbands or shoelaces. Don’t forget a flashlight—drivers can’t avoid what they can’t see!

Master the Art of Crossing Streets

Crossing the street safely is more than just glancing both ways. Here’s how to do it like a pro:

• Stick to corners and crosswalks: Cross streets only at intersections, not mid-street. When you follow the rules, drivers know what you are going to do.

• Wait and see: Try to make eye contact with drivers and wait until you know what drivers are planning to do before you step into the street. Do not assume that drivers will drive safely or are paying attention.

• Pause at the curb: Take a moment to scan the scene. Look left, right, and left again before you step out.
• Watch out for turning cars: Even when you have a green light, always double-check for drivers who might be turning.
• Walk, don’t run: Slow and steady wins the safety race. Rushing can lead to mistakes and cars may not see you, so take your time.

Watch Out for Hidden Hazards

Cars aren’t the only things you need to keep an eye on. Sometimes, other sneaky situations can pop up:

• Buses, mail/delivery vans, and food trucks: These can block a driver’s view so make sure to move to a spot where the driver can clearly see you before crossing or wait for them to pull away.
• Driveways and parking lots: Always stop and look around before walking past a driveway or through a parking lot. Look for things like lit-up reverse lights or an engine starting. Treat driveways like intersections by stopping at the edge and looking both ways before crossing.

Walking is a fun, healthy way to get around, but safety should always come first. The more you practice these tips, the more they’ll become second nature, making your walks not just enjoyable but safe too!

Learn about home safety topics from the Center for Injury Research and Policy.