In many parts of the United States, including New York, this winter has been one of the coldest and snowiest seasons on record. For millions of New Yorkers, the snow and cold make it tough to walk to work, school, and other destinations.
Those who are braving the cold on foot should practice some basic safety tips to protect themselves from injury or illness in the cold weather and when facing traffic on slippery roads.
Experienced New York pedestrian accident attorneys recommend several safe-walking tips for winter, including these tips from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC):
- Dress for the weather, not the calendar. Check both the temperature and the wind chill factor before going out. Wear layers, and cover your head, face, and hands well, especially in cold temperatures. Wear boots with treads to help you walk safely on slippery surfaces.
- Use sidewalks whenever you can. In most localities, property owners or the city are required to clear the sidewalks. Use sidewalks wherever possible to avoid walking in the road, which is more dangerous than using the sidewalk in most cases.
- If you must walk in the road, walk toward traffic. Walk on the left side of the road, facing traffic. In the winter, this can be risky due to the narrower road space left by plowing and the slippery conditions, so avoid it whenever possible. Dress in bright or reflective clothing to make yourself easier to see for oncoming cars.
- Cross at marked intersections and crosswalks. Crossing the road at marked intersections and crosswalks, always obeying traffic signals, can also reduce your risk of an accident. Tread carefully to reduce your risk of slipping on ice or slush while crossing the road.