As a personal injury lawyer, I’ve seen the devastating impacts of unsafe traffic behavior far too often. That’s why, with National Traffic Safety Month upon us, I want to take this opportunity to offer some key safety tips for drivers and pedestrians. 

Driver Safety Tips:

• Always wear your seatbelt and make sure all passengers do as well.
• Follow the speed limit, and be sure to adjust your driving for weather and traffic conditions. (Sometimes, that means going under the speed limit!)
• Stay focused on the road, avoid using your phone, and minimize other distractions.
• Yield to pedestrians in crosswalks, and watch for people walking or bicycling in bike lanes.
• Never drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Keep in mind you’re often much more impaired than you or others might think.
• Not always sure who has the right of way at a stop sign? It’s easy to forget some traffic law nuances, so I recommend taking some time each year to review basic traffic rules. 

Pedestrian Safety Tips:

• Always use sidewalks and crosswalks when available, and look both ways before crossing the street.
• Make eye contact with drivers before crossing the street to ensure that they see you.
• Avoid using electronic devices, such as smartphones or headphones, while crossing the street.
• Wear reflective clothing or carry a flashlight when walking at dusk or night to increase visibility to drivers.
• Teach children pedestrian safety rules and always accompany young children when crossing the street.

I hope that you find these tips useful and that you will join me in promoting traffic safety this month and throughout the year. And, of course, do not hesitate to reach out if you have any legal questions or needs.