Pedestrian Safety in Tarrant County: How to Make the Roads Safe for Everyone

During the warm weather months people want to enjoy the outdoors, but since 2016 the number of pedestrians killed by a motor vehicle is up 46% from 2009 to nearly 6,000 people. Factors such as distraction behind the wheel, texting while walking, and in some cases, the type of vehicle being driven has posed an increase in danger to our pedestrians. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, pedestrians made up 16% of traffic deaths in 2016, up 11% from 2007. Whether it be people just out for a walk, hurrying to get to work or rushing to cross the street, these tragic accidents can leave you with catastrophic losses in your life and our community. 

• Be sure to follow the rules of the road. 

• Drive sober, be attentive, and obey speed limits.

• Be aware of pedestrians around crosswalks and always be prepared to yield. 

• Never pass a vehicle stopped at a crosswalk; they may be yielding to a pedestrian. 

• Look for bikes before making a turn at an intersection.

• Always walk on the sidewalk or a path when available. When no sidewalk is available, walk on the shoulder of the road facing traffic. 

• Refrain from using electronic devices that would take your attention away from nearby traffic.

• Never assume a driver sees you. Either make eye contact or wait and watch for them to slow down. Drivers could be distracted or under the influence. You can always wait until traffic has passed if you are unsure that a driver has seen you. 

• Always be visible to drivers by wearing bright clothes during the day and reflective clothing at night. 

• Avoid walking around after drinking alcohol or using drugs. 

• Always wear a helmet. 

• Make yourself more visible by wearing bright clothes during the day and reflective gear at night. In addition, place a front light and rear reflectors to increase awareness. 

• Ride in the same direction as traffic.

• Obey street signs and signals just like you would in a vehicle. 

• Watch for hazards such as gravel, potholes and train tracks that may cause you to fall.

• Avoid texting or anything that would distract your mind from paying attention to the road. 

• Avoid drugs or alcohol before riding to avoid impaired judgement and coordination. 

 

At The Hart Law Firm, we believe that the citizens of Tarrant County should have the freedom of mobility without having to fear the safety of the public. When an individual is taken tragically from a community, the impact extends to the community in ways such as emotional trauma and taxpayer spending on emergency response or long-term care.