Crosswalks In New York City

For convenience, to save money, to get healthy, and numerous other reasons, people choose to walk in New York City, and throughout New York. All too often, however, collisions occur involving walkers or runners and motor vehicles, often resulting in serious injuries and death for the pedestrians. In fact, the New York Department of Motor Vehicles reports that 16,278 pedestrians were injured and 344 were killed in 2013 alone. While not all car-verses-walker crashes are preventable, there are things that pedestrians can do to help keep themselves safe.

Obey traffic signs and signals

Traffic signs and signals are meant to keep order on the roads. Drivers, who are legally required to obey these signs, often operate under the assumption that others …show more content…
This is because they do commonly provide some type of separation. By being outside the lanes of traffic, drivers may be less likely to accidently strike them. Furthermore, it may also be helpful for pedestrians to use signaled crosswalks whenever possible.

If there are no sidewalks or crosswalks available, pedestrians are encouraged to use extreme caution. Unlike bicyclists, who are encouraged to ride with the flow of traffic, it is suggested that walkers and runners use the side of the road that is facing traffic when there is not a sidewalk. This may help ensure drivers see them, and allow them the opportunity to yield.

Be visible

At dawn, dusk and throughout the nighttime hours, it may be difficult for motorists to see pedestrians, particularly on streets that are poorly lit. The New York Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee recommends that pedestrians wear clothing that is reflective or lightly colored. It may also be helpful to carry a flashlight if walking or running at night. Doing so may help drivers to see them better, which may reduce their likelihood of being involved in a pedestrian