I Can’t See You – Tips for Being a Safe Pedestrian

With the fall time change, many of us drive home in the dark—and pedestrians can seem to appear out of nowhere. Please help drivers help you by being a safe pedestrian. Florida is ranked among the most dangerous places in the U.S. for people walking, with eight of the ten most dangerous cities located in the state. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}

Sobering pedestrian safety statistics

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that most fatal pedestrian crashes occur in urban areas (73%), away from intersections (70%), and at night (70%). Alcohol is involved in nearly half of fatal pedestrian crashes (driver, pedestrian, or both). :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

Pedestrian safety basics

Be predictable: follow the rules of the road and obey signs and signals. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
Walk on sidewalks whenever available. If none, walk facing traffic and as far from vehicles as possible. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
Stay alert; avoid distractions from phones and headphones. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
Cross at crosswalks or intersections when possible; watch for turning cars and look in all directions. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
If no crosswalk is available, choose a well-lit spot, wait for a safe gap, and keep scanning as you cross. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
Never assume a driver sees you—make eye contact before stepping out. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
Be visible: wear bright clothing by day and reflective materials or use a flashlight at night. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
Watch for vehicles entering/exiting driveways or backing in parking lots. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}
Avoid alcohol and drugs when walking; they impair judgment and reaction time. :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}

Find more tips and videos on the NHTSA pedestrian safety page. :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}

Using your scooter on sidewalks

Important: Treat your mobility scooter or power wheelchair like a pedestrian device in shared spaces. Follow local laws and posted signs.

Stay on sidewalks. Do not ride mobility scooters in streets with moving traffic.
Cross streets carefully. Use crosswalks or intersections, wait for the signal, watch for turning vehicles, and proceed at a steady pace.
Yield to walkers. Sidewalks are shared—slow down, give audible notice if passing, and keep right when appropriate.
Be seen. Use lights, reflectors, or a safety flag—especially at dusk, dawn, or night.
Stay alert. Avoid phone use or headphones that reduce awareness of your surroundings.