Pedestrian safety tips for drivers

• Be aware of children. Pedestrian safety for kids can be difficult as they are often impulsive and can dart out in the street at any time. Follow the speed limit and be especially cautious around residential neighborhoods and school zones.

• Yield to pedestrians. When making a turn and waiting for an opening in traffic, be aware that pedestrians may have moved into your path. Pedestrians always have the right-of-way — wait for them to safely reach the sidewalk before proceeding with your turn.

• Be cautious around driveways and alleys. When entering and exiting, these can be very difficult places to spot pedestrians. Keep a close lookout, and if you can't see clearly, slow down.

• Reduce distractions. Spotting pedestrians requires your full attention. Using a cellphone, eating and drinking, talking to passengers, reading a map, or changing the radio station makes your driving more distracted, difficult and dangerous. If you are using a navigation app on your phone, set your destination before you begin driving.

• Approach crosswalks carefully. If a pedestrian is crossing or about to cross, stop well before you reach them so drivers in other lanes also have time to yield. Never pass another vehicle that has stopped for pedestrians.

• Follow the speed limit. Abiding by speed limits increases a driver's ability to watch for pedestrians and adjust for curves or objects in the roadway to help avoid dangerous situations. Plan and allow for extra time to get to your destination, take time to call ahead if you're running late and always follow the speed limit.

• Be vigilant in low-visibility conditions. Take extra precautions to spot pedestrians when driving at night or in weather conditions that reduce your ability to see, like driving in fog, rain or snow.

• Never drink and drive. If you drink and drive, you're compromising cognitive ability and responsiveness, which increases your risk of hitting someone or having an accident.

• Exit carefully. Once you’ve arrived at your destination, especially if you’ve parked on the street, be aware of your surroundings and check your mirrors to allow for a smooth transition from driver to pedestrian.

• Remember, being aware of your surroundings is important no matter how you get around. Common sense and good judgment can help everyone safely share the road.

Source: www.statefarm.com