On average, in the United States, a pedestrian is killed in a traffic crash every 120 minutes and is injured every eight minutes. Although bicycling and walking are good forms of exercise and transportation, the risk of being injured or killed while participating in these activities is a real concern. In 2009, 18 pedestrians and six bicyclists from Idaho were killed in collisions with motor vehicles. To help protect yourself practice bicycle and pedestrian safety.
Bicycle Safety Tips:
Use taillights and reflective or brightly colored clothing to help drivers see you during the day and night. You are also required by law to use a headlight when riding a bike at night.
Wear a properly fitted bicycle helmet when you ride to help prevent head injuries in case of a crash
Know the rules of the road and obey traffic signs, signals, and lane markings.
Avoid alcohol and drugs as they can impair your ability to ride safely.
Use caution when crossing driveways and alley entrances. Drivers may not see you.
Pedestrian Safety Tips:
Adults should supervise children when crossing streets. Smaller children may be difficult for drivers to see and young children may not be able to judge whether it is safe to cross a street.
Always look left, right, and left again before crossing a street.
Increase visibility at night by carrying a flashlight and using reflective clothing.
If possible walk on a sidewalk, but if you must walk in the street, walk facing traffic.
Make eye-contact with drivers to be sure they see you.
Avoid alcohol and drugs as they can impair your ability to walk safely.
Use caution when crossing driveways and alley entrances. Drivers may not see you.