Three Rules Of Thumb To Avoid A New Haven Pedestrian Accident

We have been blessed with some warmer than average temperatures over the last few weeks and it looks like that will continue into the rest of the month.  With temperatures cooperating many more of us are out and about enjoying what the Elm City has to offer on foot.  The one thing that has been closer to “normal” is the fluctuation of when it gets dark.  With the end of daylights savings time ahead this weekend, this fluctuation will become even more problematic for pedestrians.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), more than 30% of all pedestrian deaths happen between 6pm and 9pm.  As the days get shorter and shorter, this window is likely to increase by an hour or two as dusk falls in the very early evening.  It is for this reason that in order to avoid a New Haven pedestrian accident this time of year it is critical that you follow some very simple rules to keep yourself safe.

1. Be predictable.  If on-coming traffic is unsure where you are going or if you’ll be in their path it is harder for them to properly avoid you and keep you safe.  If you’re walking down the street you should never jut out into traffic and always cross at a crosswalk or a well-lit intersection.  If you run out from behind a parked car there is a much greater chance that you will not be seen and you will get injured.
2. Be seen.  This includes everything from the type of clothing you’re wearing to where you cross the street.  You should always make sure that before you go anywhere near traffic, that on-coming vehicles can see you and have made eye contact with you.  If they have not you are much likelier to get into an accident.
3. Be late.  You won’t get too many people brave enough to tell you to be late, but we will.  It is important to take your time to wherever you are going because if you get injured or killed on your way there it won’t much matter if you were “going to be” on time.  Slow down and take your time when you are a pedestrian walking the streets of New Haven.  Your meeting or dinner date can wait an extra five minutes so that you can make it to your destination on time.

New Haven pedestrian accidents have become more and more common over the last few years so it is critical that you take these rules to heart and follow them whenever you head out in the city.  These simple rules will keep you safe and enjoying all that the city has to offer for years to come.

If you’ve been involved in an accident and you think you may need some help reviewing your case, contact our office and one of our attorneys will speak with you.