Both drivers and pedestrians play a role, and can significantly reduce the chances of being involved in an accident with a few simple changes in behavior.

Pedestrians: "The Corner is not that Far"

Children, especially those 5-9, are often victims of pedestrian-motor vehicle accidents because they are impulsive, have little sense of danger, and have difficulty judging the speed of oncoming cars. It is also difficult for motorists to see children if they enter the street from between parked cars. Most frequently, children are struck by vehicles in their own neighborhoods.

Make sure your child understands to look both ways and wait for cars to pass before crossing, and supervise their outdoor play as closely as possible.

Seniors are hit by vehicles less frequently, but the physical results are often more devastating.

Alcohol is also a significant factor in one out of three pedestrian deaths. It affects agility and balance, as well as impairing judgment necessary to determine when it is safe to cross a street.

Here are some tips that can help all pedestrians lower the risk of being hit by a motor vehicle:

• Always cross at intersections or crosswalks, never in the middle of a block. Visibility is greater for both drivers and pedestrians at the corner, and most intersections in Richmond have "walk/don't walk" signals. Crossing at mid-block is not only illegal, it just doesn't make sense when the corner is no more than 50 yards away. It's just not that far.
• Try to establish eye contact with approaching motorists before crossing, even if the signal says it is safe to walk. A driver who sees you isn't likely to hit you.
• Be on the lookout not only for approaching cars but vehicles that are backing up or may be parked and about to move.
• Wear good shoes and visible clothing when walking in the City, especially at night.

Motorists: "Always Give Pedestrians the Right-of-Way"

Drivers also can reduce their risks by being more aware of their surroundings.

The inside of a vehicle by its nature insulates drivers from the world around them. There are numerous blind spots created by a car's framework, and many vehicle manufacturers pride themselves on their ability to prevent outside noises from reaching a driver's ears.

Also, drivers are taught to drive defensively, so they are instinctively more aware of possible threats, such as other vehicles, than people walking or standing along a road.

And it is easy to become distracted by radios, cell phones, and children passengers.

The simple rules are to stay alert and always give pedestrians the right-of-way. Whether you're walking or driving, a pedestrian-motor vehicle accident is something no one wants to be involved in. With some smarter behavior, no one has to be.

Return to the Traffic Engineering page here.

If you have questions, please call the City's Customer Care Center at 3-1-1
or send an e-mail to DPW@RichmondGov.com.