In North Carolina's bigger cities, walking is many residents' primary mode of transportation. Sometimes, this pedestrian culture can lull walkers into a false sense of security.

After a spate of fatal accidents involving pedestrians, residents of East Charlotte are doubling-down on their efforts to make sure their neighbors stay safe.

Some residents admit they have not been following traffic rules. For example, many choose to cross the street in the middle of a block, instead of walking to the corner or to a controlled intersection. However, they also think that drivers need to do a better job looking out for pedestrians.

After an elderly woman was killed in an intersection last month, neighborhood leaders are also calling on the city to make the community more walkable. For example, they want the city to install "caution" signs to warn drivers slow down. They are also asking police to increase enforcement actions toward unreasonably aggressive drivers.

Pedestrian Safety Tips

The University of North Carolina Highway Safety Research Center has offered some tips to help both drivers and walkers avoid pedestrian accidents.

Drivers should keep the following principles in mind:

  • Remember that pedestrians don't just exist in crosswalks - always be on the lookout.
  • Always stop for a pedestrian in a crosswalk, even if it is not marked.
  • Be especially careful when turning - while you were waiting for a gap to open up, a pedestrian might have come into your path.
  • Always be extra careful around schools and other high foot-traffic zones.

Pedestrians, on the other hand, would be wise to employ the following strategies:

  • If there is a sidewalk, use it. If there isn't, walk facing traffic and as far off to the side of the road as is reasonably safe.
  • Cross at a corner or intersection whenever possible.
  • Wear lightly colored or reflective clothing, and carry a flashlight when walking in dark areas.
  • Don't automatically assume a driver will stop for you, even if you have the right-of-way.

By heeding these tips, we can all help North Carolina's communities become safer.

Source: Fox Charlotte, "Pedestrians Say It's Back to Basics After Fatal Accident," Audrina Bigos, Jan. 28, 2012.