Pedestrian safety during winter months is important to think about this time of year. The days are shorter and it’s darker longer, so there is a lot less visibility on the road. Additionally, winter presents weather hazards as well. It’s important to wear clothing that is easy to see and to also make your pets visible. Additionally, watch out for hazards like ice on the road. Bundle up appropriately so that you aren’t cold. And finally, be on high alert for cars making mistakes this time of year. Between the stress of holidays and the darker mornings, drivers might not be as alert as usual. If you plan to walk on roadways, it’s important to keep these safety tips in mind.
Pedestrian Safety During Winter Months: Staying Safe
Be Visible
One of the most important aspects of pedestrian safety during winter is to make sure that you are easily visible. The days are shorter, so people are driving to and from work in darkness. If you plan to be on the road in the morning or evenings, wear something reflective. Or better yet, something with light. If you walk your pets, make sure they also are highly visible.
Watch for Ice
Another important tip for pedestrian safety during winter months is to watch out for ice on the road. A
slip on ice can be deadly if you hit your head. Additionally, it’s important to be aware of icy patches on the road in case of cars slip near you. If you notice a patch of ice, make sure no cars are coming before very carefully making your way across it.
Bundle Up
Of course, bundling up is important for pedestrian safety during winter. It’s important to dress appropriately for the weather outside. So check the forecast before you leave your house to see if you’ll need additional things like gloves or hats. Wearing boots that have a lot of grips can be especially helpful if it’s icy outside.
Be On High Alert
Finally, when walking on roadways during winter months, it’s important to be on high alert. Winter brings a lot of stress between the holiday chaos, the end of the year, and shorter days. Additionally, drivers tend to be sleepier when their commute is in darkness. So be on the lookout for cars making unusual movements or not being very alert to pedestrians.
There are many aspects to pedestrian safety during winter months that it’s important to bear in mind as we move into the colder time of year. While we typically think of hazards like ice for automobiles, winter weather can also present dangers to pedestrians as well. Make sure you wear easily visible clothing, especially if you are out walking in the morning or evening when it’s still dark. Watch out for ice on the road to prevent falls or prevent cars from
sliding into you. Bundle up in clothes that will keep you warm, and wear shoes with extra grip to prevent slips on ice. And finally, be on high alert because drivers tend to be distracted this time of year. Hopefully, you can keep these tips in mind and keep yourself safer on the road.
