Due in large part to being a popular tourist destination, Memphis has a high rate of foot traffic. In addition to tourists walking around at attractions, some people walk to work or participate in exercise and recreational activities like running and jogging. Sadly, this area is among the leading cities nationwide for collisions between automobiles and people on foot, making it important to become familiar with safety precautions for Memphis pedestrians.
If you sustained damages because of a reckless motorist, our skilled attorneys can help you defend your rights and pursue a fair settlement amount. Contact the Law Office of David E. Gordon to schedule a free consultation to learn more.
Practical Safety Tips for Pedestrians
Memphis is a busy town. Therefore, all drivers and pedestrians must do their part to avoid hazardous situations and accidents. Many accidents occur because of negligent motorists, but there are safety precautions pedestrians should follow to keep themselves safe. Some practical safety tips for pedestrians in Memphis include:
- Avoid distractions, such as texting or talking on the phone, and stay alert of your surroundings at all times
- Walk on sidewalks when they are available and on the far-left side of the road when they are not
- Ensure children are close and out of the line of moving traffic
- Use crosswalks and follow the instruction for pedestrian crossing lights
- Ensure visibility at all times and wear bright, reflective items when walking at night
- Never step off the curb into the path of traffic
- Always stop to look both ways before crossing the street
Tennessee law considers pedestrians to be anyone traveling by foot, bicycle, or wheelchair.
Pedestrians Must Use Caution When Crossing Roads Without Crosswalks
While pedestrians should always cross streets in crosswalks when they are available, there may be times they must cross a roadway without them. According to the Tennessee Code Annotated § 55-8-135, pedestrians must yield the right-of-way to motorists under the following circumstances:
- When crossing roadways without marked crosswalks or in intersections with unmarked crosswalks
- When crossing a street that does not utilize an overhead pedestrian crossing or tunnel
- Pedestrians must not cross outside of marked crosswalks while crossing the street between adjacent intersections with traffic lights
The only way to reduce pedestrian accidents in Memphis and keep everyone safe as they walk or drive is for motorists and those on foot to do their part to stay alert. Tennessee Department of Transportation posts the complete list of pedestrian and driver responsibilities, laws, and rights to the roads on its website. Attorney David E. Gordon can review this list, answer any questions, and help injured individuals understand their legal rights.
Call Our Attorneys to Hear About Safety Precautions for Pedestrians in Memphis
Pedestrians have the legal right to use any roadways in the state except for interstates and other access-controlled highways. There are many rules, regulations, and safety precautions drivers must take when pedestrians are present. However, there are also laws and safety precautions pedestrians should follow to avoid accidents and suffering severe harm.
To learn more about safety precautions for Memphis pedestrians, or if you were involved in a collision with a negligent motorist, reach out to the Law Office of David E. Gordon today.
