You might expect that the most dangerous time to be walking on Maryland roads is the summer. When the days are long and more people enjoy the outdoors. Not so, according to data compiled by the Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT). The highest number of pedestrian accidents occurs in winter, totaling more than 37% of all crashes involving people on foot. December is an extremely risky time to be out walking, as 10.1% of injury collisions and 12.5% of fatal pedestrian accidents happen during this month.
The weather is a key factor behind the increase in pedestrian collisions in winter. Streets in Downtown Baltimore are slick for all road users, including motorists and people walking. However, there are other contributing factors, some of which are within your control and enable you to avoid crashes. It is always wise to speak to a Baltimore County pedestrian accident lawyer if you were hurt. Following a few safety tips may help you steer clear of harm.
- Don Proper Footwear: You already know the roads will be slippery, so you need shoes or boots that will enable the best friction on the surface. Look for footwear with deeply grooved soles, and avoid wearing high heels when possible. You can always put on practical footwear for your walk and then change it upon arrival.
- Watch Signage: When you see a Walk/Don’t Walk sign that includes a countdown to when the light switches, never enter the intersection. Even though it is legal, you will be motivated to rush, increasing the potential for slips in front of traffic.
- Stay Sober: Drunk walking is more dangerous than you might think. It is even riskier when you are dealing with harsh weather and slippery road conditions. After a few drinks, you could be stumbling, leading you to slip and fall into traffic. Your cognitive abilities also suffer so that you might disregard traffic signals intended for your protection.
- Be Visible at Night: Dusk continues to come early for the next few weeks. Plan ahead if walking is part of your evening commute. Make sure to wear brightly colored clothing, and consider carrying a light if you are walking in dimly lit areas.
- Walk the Mall: If you walk for exercise during the winter, the best, almost 100% effective way to avoid pedestrian accidents is to hit the mall. Many malls in the Baltimore area cater to individuals for precisely this reason: It is safer than walking outside. In a few months, you might even head to a shopping center to beat the heat in the pleasant AC.
Schedule a Free Consultation With a Maryland Pedestrian Accident Attorney
Safety tips are always useful for reducing the risk of accidents, but you cannot always prevent negligent acts by motorists. To learn more about your legal remedies, please call 410.363.6848 or go online to reach attorney Michael A. Freedman. We can set up a no-cost case review at our offices in Owings Mills or Glen Burnie.
