 Walking is a great activity for seniors and a great way
to stay fit. However, it can also be dangerous
 Every year dozens of senior pedestrians are
killed in New Jersey and many hundreds more are injured
Persons over the age of
60 are struck and killed by cars in New Jersey at a disproportionate rate.
(individuals over the age of 60 account for 16% of the state's population and
34% of the state's pedestrian fatalities)
The elderly pedestrian is at high-risk
because he or she may suffer from hearing or vision difficulties as well as
problems with mobility and reaction time.
Wear bright-colored
clothing, especially at night. If necessary, attach a piece of reflective
materials to your clothing or handbag, or carry a flashlight.
Walk on sidewalks or
paths. If none are available and you must walk in the roadway, stay on the
shoulder to the extreme left and face approaching traffic.
Always cross at the
corner, within marked crosswalks where available. Do not cross mid-block or
between parked cars.
Always look both ways before crossing and be on the lookout for
turning vehicles. Continue to look for vehicles while crossing.
Make eye contact with
the driver before crossing in front of a vehicle.
Beware of
obstructions such as parked cars, buses, mailboxes, or hedges, which may
prevent motorists from seeing you.
Never cross in front of a parked bus. Wait for the bus
to depart and then cross.
Learn the proper use of "Walk/Don't Walk" signals:
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- A "Walk" sign means you may begin
crossing, but you still must look both ways and remain alert for oncoming cars.
- A flashing "Don't walk" sign means it is
too late to start trying to cross. If you have already begun crossing, you
should continue to the other side of the street at your normal pace. Do not
stop.
- A solid "Don't Walk" sign means do not try
to cross the street. For the most possible time to cross, wait for a fresh
"Walk" sign.
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Remember: Pushing a pedestrian crossing button
does not mean you will immediately get at "Walk" signal. Give it some time.
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Use the buddy system, walk and cross with others when
possible.
If
at all possible do not walk at night, or during bad weather such as rain, snow,
or ice.
Stay
sober. Be aware that walking while impaired by drugs or alcohol greatly
increases your chances of being struck. Drinking and walking is as dangerous as
drinking and driving.
Remember that prescription medication may make you drowsy or
confused and may also impair your ability to walk as well as your reaction
time.
Watch
out for cars pulling into and out of driveways and moving through parking lots.
Many pedestrian crashes occur here.
Above all else, remain alert. Though motor vehicles are
supposed to yield to pedestrians you cannot assume that cars are going to stop
for you. Many motorists are impatient and under stress.
Patience, caution,
and common sense should keep you safe.
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