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Pedestrians must ensure they remain safe this winter

As the winter weather approaches, pedestrians must make sure they remember some basic safety tips as they walk outside. Employing these may keep them from being involved in an accident. Pedestrian accidents during the winter can be particularly troublesome due to the cold weather, which might initially mask some injuries.

One of the biggest risks for people walking around during the winter is the slick surfaces. Not only do pedestrians have to worry about how these conditions impact them, they also have to keep an eye on vehicles being driven in inclement weather. Below are a few tips that may come in handy

  • Remember to wear appropriate footwear and take your time. You need flat shoes that can provide some traction on the snow or ice. If you must wear heels, bring them with you and put them on when you get to your destination.
  • Always walk on sidewalks when possible. When choosing your path, it’s preferable to walk on areas that have been shoveled and treated with salt or sand. There is a chance that if you are walking on slippery sidewalks that you will slide off, which might end with you in the street.
  • Use crosswalks when they are available but keep an eye on cars. Some drivers don’t take the road conditions into account when they drive. They may not allow themselves enough time to stop before they enter the crosswalk. This can lead to them hitting you even if you had the right of way.

Being struck by a vehicle can lead to serious injuries like broken bones or damage to the brain or spinal cord. If a motorist hits you, get medical care and then decide if you are going to seek compensation to try to defray the financial impacts the incident has on your life.

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