“What can a pedestrian do if there is no sidewalk?” is a question you might not think you’ll have to ask too often in Austin, TX. The city is, after all, home to about 2,800 miles of existing sidewalks, according to the Austin Transportation and Public Works Department.
However, the city has a lot of work to do when it comes to creating new sidewalks for pedestrians, which can lead to dangerous pedestrian accidents. There are about 1,500 miles of “absent sidewalks” in Austin. “Absent sidewalks” refer to any areas that run along roadways where a basic pedestrian infrastructure doesn’t exist.
So, what should you do if you come across one of these areas where there aren’t any sidewalks? Find out below.
Walk on the Left Side of the Road
If you’re walking on one of the many sidewalks in Austin, TX, you’re welcome to stay on the right side of the road and walk with traffic. But if there aren’t any sidewalks and you’re wondering, “What can a pedestrian do if there is no sidewalk?” it’s a different story.
In this case, walk facing traffic on the left side of the road. This will ensure visibility won’t become an issue. Drivers should see you since you’ll be in their line of vision.
Stay Away From the Road
When walking down a street in Austin without sidewalks, you might be tempted to stay on the shoulder. If this is your only option, you’re free to use the shoulder as long as you inch your way to its outer edge.
Whenever possible, step off the road and walk on the grass. You’ll decrease your chances of being involved in a pedestrian accident by maintaining distance from moving vehicles.
Only Cross the Road at Intersections
You might think the majority of pedestrian accidents occur at busy intersections. But in reality, less than one-fourth of these accidents take place at them.
Keep this in mind when crossing the road at intersections when walking in an area without sidewalks. By practicing proper crosswalk safety in Austin, you will put yourself in a much safer position.
Remain on High Alert
Generally speaking, you should always remain on high alert whenever you’re walking along a busy road, regardless of whether you’re on a sidewalk. Exhibiting traffic awareness may enable you to sidestep any potentially dangerous situations.
Put your smartphone in your pocket while asking yourself, ”What can a pedestrian do if there is no sidewalk?” and pay attention to your surroundings. Put some extra pep in your step, too, so you can quickly work your way to a safer location.
Take Nighttime Precautions
Ideally, you should avoid walking outside at night in Austin, especially if you plan to walk in an area without any sidewalks. Walking outside at night increases the chances of drivers not seeing you, which could lead to a pedestrian accident.
If you have no choice but to walk outside at night, wear reflective clothing and bright colors that will make it almost impossible for drivers to miss you. You might even want to attach blinking lights to your clothing.
Make Sure You Know What a Pedestrian Can Do If There Is No Sidewalk
Certain pedestrian rights protect you when you travel around Austin, TX, by foot. Still, you shouldn’t let that stop you from asking important questions like, ”What can a pedestrian do if there is no sidewalk?”
Use the tips provided here to stay safe, and contact Dow Law Firm to explore your legal options if you’re ever involved in a pedestrian accident. Call us at 512-240-9951 or fill out this form to make an appointment with a trusted personal injury lawyer.