Keeping pedestrians safe

Did you know that pedestrians make up more than 10% of those killed on Western Australian roads?

When pedestrians interact with cars on the road they have no real protection, so they are much more vulnerable in a crash. It’s important motorists and pedestrians work together to stay smart and use paths and roads safely.

As a driver:

• Don’t rush your drive, stay alert and take your time – watch out for other road users.
• Keep a look out for pedestrians and be ready to stop for them.
• Be particularly alert at pedestrian crossings, intersections and between cars or behind buses.
• Slow down and watch for kids around schools and playgrounds.
• Slow down and look between cars near shopping centres or in car parks.
• Assume pedestrians near hotels, bars or clubs may have been drinking alcohol, so could be paying less attention.

As a pedestrian

• Always look towards oncoming traffic.
• Walk straight and with care.
• Try to avoid crossing between parked cars.
• Where possible, cross at designated pedestrian crossings.
• Turning motorists must give way to pedestrians, but don’t assume they will.
• Don’t walk on or around the road if you have been drinking alcohol.
• Help other pedestrians like younger children or elderly people.
• Using a mobile phone while walking near roads can also be dangerous. Keep your eyes on the road instead of the screen.
• Be extra cautious when walking with headphones in because it’s harder to hear traffic around you.