Snow and cold challenge motorists, homeowners – and pedestrians. With drifts and unshovelled walks sending more people into the street, AAA offers some safety suggestions.
Winter walking tips:
- Make sure approaching vehicles come to a complete stop. Slick road conditions keep motorists from stopping quickly at traffic signals or slowing in time for pedestrians in cross walks.
- Dress to be seen. Wearing brightly colored, fluorescent or reflective clothing. At night, use a flashlight or other light.
- Walk facing traffic. Stay as close to the curb or far edge of the road shoulder as possible.
- Multiple walkers should walk single file rather than abreast.
- Keep warm, but be aware of traffic. Accumulated snow can muffle the sounds of an approaching vehicle, so can hats and scarves that cover your ears.
- Choose your route carefully. Consider a longer, safer route over a shorter, heavily traveled one.
- Shop before a major storm hits, if you can. Since streets are slippery, don't buy more than you can safely carry.
- Use slip-resistant footwear to prevent slip-and-fall accidents.
Source: AAA
