Automotive safety and preventing car accident injuries and fatalities

Safe practices for pedestrians and bicyclists

Most pedestrian accidents occur in cities, at night, away from intersections. In nearly half of the vehicle crashes involving pedestrians, alcohol is a factor. In about a third of auto accidents involving pedestrians, it's the pedestrian who is legally intoxicated.

Pedestrians should always walk in designated areas such as sidewalks and crosswalks, and especially at night to be aware that drivers may have more difficulty seeing them. When pedestrians must walk on a shoulder, they should always walk on the left side, facing oncoming traffic.

Bicyclists should also follow the rules of the road, riding on the right hand side and observing all traffic regulations. At night cyclists should have front and rear lights, and wear reflective clothing. Bicycle helmets are a significant safety measure, about 85-percent effective in mitigating head and brain injuries. Wearing a helmet is the single most effective means to reduce brain injuries and fatalities resulting from bicycle crashes.