The EMPD has observed a rising trend in pedestrian accidents. This mostly happens because of unsafe behaviour and frequently results in significant injuries or even fatalities.
The EMPD media liaison officer, Joy Mdluli, said all road users have to not only obey the road rules, but also have the responsibility for the safety of themselves and others.
She added there are several contributing factors to pedestrian-related road accidents. These include drunk pedestrians, victims of reckless driving, distracted pedestrians or pedestrian inattentiveness, pedestrians ignoring or disobeying traffic light signals, and reckless or lawless pedestrians.
Some tips for pedestrians to keep safe on the roadways:
• Always obey road signs and traffic lights.
• Never cross the road without looking both ways and checking that there is no traffic before crossing the road.
• Never assume that motorists have seen you. Many disturbances might attract the attention of motorists.
• Make eye contact with motorists to make sure they see you.
• Wearing light-coloured or reflective clothing increases your visibility.
• Do not walk and stop halfway across the road. Remain beside the road until both lanes are clear to cross safely.
• Stay focused. Being distracted while walking in traffic may be deadly.
• Make use of pavements and walkways. If there is no pavement, walk as close to the edge of the roadway as possible, facing the oncoming traffic.
• As much as possible, only cross the road at a pedestrian crossing or at a traffic signal.
