The Thomson Law Firm offers FREE consultations for people injured in an accident. Call or text (540) 777-4900 to talk to an intake specialist today.
We in the Roanoke Valley are fortunate to have over 30 miles of greenways to enjoy walking, cycling and running. Unfortunately, Roanoke City has opted to close all of the cities beloved greenways effective Friday, April 3, 2020. Many cyclists, runners and walkers will be turning to city streets for daily exercise. Hopefully, with decreased traffic, cycling or walking on city streets will be a safer activity as compared to “normal” times.
Even though walkers can anticipate fewer vehicles on the road, anyone on the road should still take every precaution to not be involved in an accident. After all, the hospital is that last place you want to be right now.
If you are planning a walk this afternoon, please familiarize yourself with these safety tips for pedestrians:
- If a sidewalk is available, use it.
- If there is no sidewalk, walk on the left side of the road facing traffic. This allows you to make eye-contact with the driver of an oncoming vehicle. Be sure to add a friendly wave, it may help you feel less isolated during this time of social distancing.
- When it is time to cross the street, look both ways and use crosswalks when available.
- Make eye contact with drivers at intersections, that way you know that he or she can see you.
- Never cross a street in a blind curve.
- Keep your mind, your eyes and ears on your surroundings. Do not use a phone or earbuds while on the road. Listen for oncoming vehicles and enjoy the sounds of nature. No distracted walking!
- Use a flashlight or headlamp at night.
- Wear reflective clothing at night or in low-light conditions.
- Wear bright colors during the day.
- If walking through a neighborhood, watch for cars backing out of driveways. Remember that large trucks and SUV’s have significant blind areas directly behind their vehicles. Many vehicles are not equipped with cameras or sensors.
- Do not walk along the roadway if you are under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
I’m hoping that you find this list of tips helpful, and that putting these behaviors keep you and your family safe. I also hope that you are your family are able to get outside and go for a walk, at least once a day. I truly believe that spending time doing moderate exercise will help to relieve some of the stress we are all feeling due to the recent outbreak of the Coronavirus.
I would also like to remind everyone that our firm is open and operating as usual. Some of our staff members are working from home but all are available to help you. If you or someone you love has been injured or killed in a pedestrian accident, call or text (540) 777-4900 to talk to an intake specialist today.
