IT’S unfortunate that drivers are the only ones blamed when someone is killed on the road.
Safety does not only apply to drivers. Pedestrians also have to adhere to road safety rules.
According to the Automobile Association of South Africa, Mzansi is above the global average when it comes to road deaths, with pedestrians making up a large number of these fatalities, at 40%.
People are quick to blame drivers for reckless driving, but they should also reflect on the behaviour of pedestrians. Here are a few road safety tips to help people keep safe while crossing the roads:
- Remember: look right, left and look right again before crossing the street. Make sure you have a clear view of the road before crossing.
- Stick to the basic road rules. Use the nearest zebra crossing when crossing the street, walk on the sidewalk, make use of traffic signals provided by officers and at traffic lights, and walk facing oncoming traffic.
- During winter, it’s much darker than usual, and in some areas, winter rain is a norm.
If you must walk in the dark, ensure that you wear reflective clothes so that drivers can see you.
- Don’t text and walk! You won’t see oncoming cars.
- Listening to music and wearing earphones can prevent you from hearing oncoming traffic.
Encourage your children to understand the importance of pedestrian safety.
