Walk safe

Pedestrians and traffic

Pedestrian fatalities account for a significant proportion of the road toll. In 2001, 15% of all road fatalities were pedestrians. Fatalities and injuries can be reduced if both drivers and pedestrians take care and respect each other's presence on the road. Here are a few simple guidelines to keep in mind when sharing the road.

Pedestrians:

• Cross roads at marked crossings (pedestrian crossings, traffic signals or pedestrian refuges) wherever possible.
• Be sure the driver has seen you before you cross the road and make eye contact if possible—never assume a driver has seen you.
• If there is no crossing, avoid crossing where you cannot see approaching traffic such as near the crest of a hill or at a bend in the road. Cross where you know it is safe.
• At railway level crossings, wait for the boom to rise and bells to stop before you cross—a second train may be approaching.
• Always walk on footpaths or nature strips where possible. If there is no footpath or nature strip, walk so that you are facing oncoming traffic.
• Walk along streets with less traffic. Less noise and fumes creates a more pleasant walking environment as well as being safer.
• Make yourself as visible as possible. Wear bright clothing during the day and white or reflective clothing at night. Walking with someone else will increase your visibility.
• Learn and obey the road rules.
• Pay extra attention on the road, as you have no protection if you're involved in a crash.

Drivers:

• Obey the road rules, and give way to pedestrians at pedestrian crossings and when turning into a street.
• Drive carefully in areas where there is likely to be a lot of pedestrians such as schools and shopping centres. Pay careful attention near hotels, sports grounds and other places alcohol is served as intoxicated pedestrians can be unpredictable. Look out for anyone about to cross the road.
• Watch your speed so that you can brake safely if there is a pedestrian crossing the road ahead.
• Drive carefully around schools and in local neighbourhoods where children play. Children have less developed road sense compared to adults and may run out onto the road suddenly without first looking to see that it is safe.
• Don't park on footpaths as it is illegal and endangers pedestrians by forcing them to walk onto the road.
• Look out for pedestrians around road works. A footpath may not be available and they may have to walk on the road.
• Become a pedestrian yourself. Try walking instead of driving wherever you can—to the shops, to school or to work.

See the road user code of behaviour for more information regarding the responsibilities of pedestrians, motorists and cyclists when interacting on the road.

Walking at night

Visibility on roads and shared paths is often poor at night so you should be extra cautious.

• Be seen—wear something reflective like a wristband, shoes, a jacket or backpack with a reflective strip. When using shared paths, wearing a flashing light on your back will increase your visibility. You should also avoid walking in poorly lit areas.
• Be safe—walk with someone else and where other people can see you. If you are alone, carry a mobile phone or even a whistle to blow if you get into trouble.

Walking in the sun and heat

• Avoid walking in the hottest part of the day—mornings and evenings are the best times to walk.
• Don't push yourself too hard.
• Rest in the shade when you are feeling tired.
• Drink plenty of water.
• Wear a broad-brimmed hat, sunscreen, sunglasses and protective clothing.

More information about how to be 'SunSmart' is available on the Queensland Health Sun Safety website.