Many Pedestrians believe that drivers will readily see them and stop their cars. However, studies show that drivers frequently need to react in time due to excessive traffic, dangerous road conditions, and numerous distractions.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 92% of pedestrian deaths in Vehicle crashes are attributed to events involving fleets.

In this article, let’s explore how drivers can be more cautious when it comes to pedestrian safety and prevent any unfortunate roadway accidents.

Why do pedestrians need your drivers’ attention?

People and circumstances that your drivers might encounter while operating a vehicle for your company are listed below.

Awareness of these issues before getting behind the wheel will only help drivers to be more responsive when they come across pedestrians.

Elderly Citizens

They frequently take a long time to cross the street, have slow reaction times, and may have hearing or vision problems that prevent them from recognising impending traffic.

Drunk or high individuals

Under the influence of alcohol or drugs, pedestrians may cross the street abruptly or without sufficient time to assess the speed or distance of oncoming vehicles.

Dense urban areas

These areas frequently have eateries, shops, theatres, and sports facilities. There is a lot of foot traffic, and pedestrians often enter roadways from between parked automobiles rather than from crosswalks.

Night time visibility

Because of reduced visibility in the dark, more than half of all pedestrian fatalities occur between 6:00 and 11:59 p.m.

Many pedestrians do not carry a flashlight or glow stick, despite the fact that they should wear light-coloured clothing.

Electronic and other distractions

Driving while texting or talking on the phone is a dangerous distraction. Additionally, unexpected surroundings may compel your drivers to focus more on buildings and street signs than on people and traffic signals.

Busy neighbourhood

On the sidewalks and streets of these neighbourhoods, children can be found frequently in great numbers. Unintentional pedestrian injuries are the seventh most common cause of injury-related death in the United States for children aged 5 to 19, according to Safe Kids Worldwide.

The UK is no different, as the likelihood of coming across a child in traffic can increase near playgrounds and fields used for neighbourhood sports.

Also read: What is the traffic light sequence? FleetSpeak explains.

How to avoid getting in an accident with pedestrians?

Your drivers should keep in mind the below fundamental rules when passing through places where there are pedestrians:

Keep watching for pedestrians.

In low lighting and terrible weather, walkers and runners can get very difficult to spot while driving. So, it’s advised to keep your eyes on the road for them all the time.

Always stop for pedestrians.

Always stop for pedestrians in the crosswalk, especially if signs indicate a pedestrian crosswalk.

Never pass

Always remember: Never pass parked vehicles at crosswalks. They could be stopped to let people cross the street.

Slowdown

In order to notice pedestrians, it’s essential first to slow down. Always be ready to stop when turning or otherwise entering a crosswalk.

Never use a mobile phone while driving.

Never use a mobile phone or other devices while operating a vehicle. To prevent inattentional blindness, pull over somewhere secure.

Be careful when backing out.

Be cautious when reversing out of parking spaces. It’s possible for pedestrians to be invisible or to fail to notice a vehicle backing out of parking spaces.

Be aware of blind spots.

Be aware of blind spots everywhere around your vehicle, including the A-pillar on either side of the windshield and the blind spots on either side of your vehicle.

Use eye contact.

To let a pedestrian know what you’re up to, make eye contact or make a courteous gesture to let them know.

When making a turn.

Be cautious of improper tracking when turning in a truck with a trailer since it could force the trailer to cross a sidewalk where pedestrians might be walking.

Safe tech for better fleet management.

As a fleet business owner, you should consider using technology tools to support your drivers and uphold your policies.

There are gadgets available to mount to the dashboard or the region behind the rearview mirror and keep a close eye on your vehicle’s surroundings. These devices can identify encroachment from vehicles, bicycles, and pedestrians.

Additionally, they can warn your driver if they veer out of their lane or follow any vehicle in front of them too closely.

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