Pedestrians

Adult pedestrians

Years of experience obviously mean that adults are generally considerably safer on the roads than children are.  However, adults should still bear in mind that they need to minimise the risks facing all pedestrians.

Detailed guidance can be found in the Highway Code.

Make sure you follow the advice below to keep yourself safe.

  • If you have a child with you, make sure that you set a good example - point out hazards and, if the child is young, hold their hand at all times
  • Always use Zebra, Pelican, Puffin or Toucan Crossings if possible, even if it means walking a little bit further
  • Always use traffic islands if possible, making sure that you stop on the island and look again for traffic before continuing to cross
  • Avoid crossing between parked cars, as drivers will be unable to see you
  • As you cross, make sure you keep looking both ways
  • If you wear glasses or a hearing aid, always use them when you're out walking
  • Try to make sure you always wear or carry something white or bright, particularly on dull or misty days, so that you can be easily seen. Fluorescent colours are best during the day, but won't be seen in the dark, so at night you need something reflective

Child pedestrians

Pedestrians, and particularly child pedestrians, are the most vulnerable of all road users. Teaching them to use the roads safely is an important part of minimising the risk of accidents.

It's vital that parents and other carers are aware of the risks posed to children on our roads, and help them to learn road safety skills. Setting a good example, pointing out possible hazards, and encouraging children to think about their actions while out and about are all invaluable contributions to the road safety education of young people.

Your child's best road safety teacher is you

This is because basic road safety can only be taught in the street. Your child is out and about with you and it's your example he or she follows, good or bad.

Please don't wait for the school to teach road safety. It's your responsibility as a parent to give your child the basic skills.

Advice on how to teach your child vital road safety skills is available from the Road Safety Unit.

Information for road users

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