Walking Safe in the Mohawk Valley

A friend of ours and his wife just got back from visiting their daughter in Atlanta. He tells us that as she drove them from the airport, he couldn’t help but wonder how she handled the monster traffic!

Four lanes going both ways with a slow lane for those comfortable with the snail’s-pace of 75 mph. It occurred to him that these were not the conditions for the morning constitutional that he loved to start the day.

We can all agree that it’s nothing like that here in the Utica area. You see people walking pretty much everywhere…another awesome benefit of living the quiet life in the Mohawk Valley.

So with spring here and walking season upon us, we thought this a good time to let you in on some tips to ensure your safety as a pedestrian. Whether you’re strolling through a bustling Utica or Rome or crossing a quiet street in New Hartford, here are some tips to ensure your safety as a pedestrian.

Stay Alert
The most important rule for pedestrians is to stay alert and be aware of your surroundings. Avoid distractions such as texting or listening to loud music while walking. By keeping your eyes and ears open, you’ll be better equipped to spot potential hazards and react accordingly.

Use Crosswalks
It’s always a good idea to use designated crosswalks rather than jaywalking or crossing mid-block, especially in the cities of Utica and Rome. Remember to look both ways before crossing and wait for the signal indicating it’s safe to proceed.

Make Eye Contact
When crossing in front of vehicles, try to make eye contact with the driver to ensure they see you. This simple gesture can help prevent accidents by confirming that the driver acknowledges your presence and intends to yield the right of way.

Follow Traffic Signals
Just like drivers, pedestrians must obey traffic signals such as traffic lights and pedestrian crossing signals. Wait for the “walk” signal before crossing the street, and only proceed when it’s safe to do so. Likewise, don’t attempt to cross when the signal indicates “don’t walk” or when the light is red.

Walk Facing Traffic
When sidewalks are unavailable, walk on the side of the road facing oncoming traffic. This allows you to see approaching vehicles and react accordingly.

Be Visible
In low-light conditions or bad weather, it’s essential to make yourself as visible as possible to drivers. Wear bright or reflective clothing, especially at night, and carry a flashlight or use your smartphone’s flashlight feature if necessary.

Avoid Distractions
Distracted walking can be just as dangerous as distracted driving. Keep your focus on your surroundings, especially when crossing streets or navigating busy intersections. Save phone calls, texting, and other distractions for when you’ve safely reached your destination.

Watch for Turning Vehicles
Be extra cautious when crossing intersections, especially when vehicles are turning. Drivers may not always see pedestrians crossing, so make sure to make eye contact and proceed with caution.

Walk in Groups
There’s safety in numbers, so whenever possible, walk with a group, especially at night or in unfamiliar areas. Not only does this increase your visibility to drivers, but it also deters potential threats.

Trust Your Instincts
Finally, trust your instincts. If a situation feels unsafe, don’t hesitate to take an alternative route or seek assistance. Your safety is paramount, so listen to your gut and err on the side of caution.

We especially like the idea of making eye contact with drivers. Establishing that immediate “relationship” can save your life.

Thing is, safe walking as a pedestrian requires mindfulness, awareness, and adherence to traffic laws. Remember, it only takes a moment of carelessness for tragedy to strike, so always prioritize safety whenever you’re out for a stroll.

Until next time,

Your SZW Team

SZW Insurance is your Utica area Trusted Choice™ independent insurance agent. Call us for a quote on insurance for your home, car, business, or life at 315.792.0000. Or request a quote here.