Indiana residents who have been waiting for the return of spring to be out and about more on foot should be pleased to see that spring is finally here. However, before rushing out to go for that run or walk or even to simply appreciate walking from a car to building in pleasant weather, it is important to make safety a priority. As much as it would be nice to think that drivers will always look for and stop for pedestrians, that simply does not happen all the time.

The AAA Exchange recommends pedestrians pay special attention to what they are wearing when out at night. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration indicates that nearly one-third of all pedestrian deaths happen between 8:00 p.m. and midnight. Lighter colors, especially those with reflective elements, are preferred at night. Bolder, brighter colors may be better in the daytime.

Making eye contact with drivers is a huge benefit for pedestrians as this may be the only way to truly know that a driver has seen the person on foot. The Pedestrian and Bicycle Information Center recommends this especially if the pedestrian sees that a driver may be using a phone or otherwise distracted.

Speaking of using phones, pedestrians are discouraged from doing so as this could distract them and reduce their ability to keep an eye out for vehicles. Similarly, the use of headphones or earbuds should be limited. Using an earbud in only one ear allows a person to still hear sounds of vehicles with the other ear.