Avoiding Pedestrian Accidents

Seattle is a very walkable city, but it can be dangerous when drivers and pedestrians don't follow basic safety precautions. The Mayor's Office, the Department of Transportation and the Seattle Police Department are joining together for a pedestrian safety campaign to make sure citizens stay informed and stay safe when walking and driving in Seattle.

SAFETY TIPS FOR PEDESTRIANS

• Always walk on the sidewalk. If there is no sidewalk and you must walk in the roadway, always walk facing traffic.

• Dress to be seen. Wearing bright/light colored clothing helps drivers see you. Reflective clothing is the best.

• Cross streets only at marked crosswalks or intersections.

• If crossing a multiple lane roadway, pedestrians should visually clear each lane as they proceed.

• If a car is parked where you are trying to cross, look for a driver who may pull out and not see you as he is looking for traffic.

• Remember telephone poles, utility boxes and parked vehicles block on-coming drivers ability to see you.

• Look LEFT - RIGHT - LEFT prior to entering the street.

• Give drivers ample time to stop prior to entering the crosswalk.

• Crossing at locations that have traffic signals helps motorist see you.

• Turn off your headphones while crossing the street, so you can hear approaching traffic.

• Always hold a child by the hand while crossing the street and remember, WALK don't run.

CAUTION TIPS FOR DRIVERS

• Never pass/overtake a vehicle that is stopped at a crosswalk.

• Headlights should be on at all times, it helps pedestrians and other motorist see you.

• Do not drive with distractions (cell phones, eating, etc.)

• Pay attention to and abide by all speed limits.

• Look ahead for potential dangers or people in the roadway or crosswalks; shift your attention well ahead of the hood of your car.

• Stop for pedestrians in all crosswalks: on a two-lane road, the pedestrian must be completely across the roadway before you begin moving again. On a multi-lane road, you must stop for pedestrians when they are within ONE LANE OF YOUR DIRECTION OF TRAVEL.

• Pedestrians have the right of way at ALL intersections, whether in a marked crosswalk or not.

• Always yield to pedestrians upon making turns at intersection

• NEVER DRINK AND DRIVE.

• Know your surroundings while you drive, be a good defensive driver. Think outside your car.

• On bright days wear sunglasses or use your sun visor to minimize bright glare.

• Don't let your passengers interfere with our driving.

• Always have ample driving time, try not to be in a rush-a patient driver is a safe driver.

RELATED

Pedestrian Safety Campaign - Keep Pedestrians Safe

Mayor's Pedestrian Safety Issues Page