Walking is
the best and the easiest way to increase your fitness level, but a
pedestrian/vehicle accident can dismantle
your plans quickly. Increased frailty,
decline in vision, less than perfect hearing, and slower reaction times can all
combine to make America’s
favorite pastime hazardous to your health.
More seniors are walking, which is a good
thing, but the chance of being involved in a pedestrian accident is higher than
you might think. People of all ages are taking to the road, which
means that everyone needs to focus on pedestrian
safety.
A lady in my neighborhood walks everyday. She pushes a walker and does not look up or even
smile, because she is totally focused on what she is doing. I am glad that she is walking and also glad
that our street is in good repair and is wider than normal. Not all streets have sidewalks.
You would think drivers
would get the hint. Pedestrians are everywhere.
Some are walking; others are running or jogging. Parents pushing
strollers, handicap persons riding scooters, and dog owners all share the
roads. It is a good reminder that
everyone needs to be more careful.
Most accidents occur in the
evening or in the wee hours of the morning.
Visibility is poor and people don’t expect to see anyone out there. Children and elderly persons are both seriously
at risk. Children move too quickly, and older people move too slowly to appease
harried drivers. Children do dumb things and older adults under the influence
of alcohol or medications may not use good judgment.
Use the sidewalk, walk
facing traffic, cross at intersections, wearing reflective clothing and carry a
flashlight to make you more visible. Pay
attention while you walk. Next time you
are walking try to notice how many people are talking on their cell phones
while walking…it only takes a second of inattentiveness to stumble into the
path of an oncoming vehicle.
If possible walk in a park
or on a walking trail. Be aware of heavy traffic or uneven sidewalks. If you must use the road remember to face
oncoming traffic, wear light colored clothing and pay attention at all times.
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