Winter weather has arrived in Pennsylvania, which means that it is time to start preparing for the coming snowfall. Getting around the city in the winter can be difficult, so it is important to know the possible hazards you may face.
Winter is a risky season for pedestrians. What conditions present the most danger for people walking on the street?
Snow and ice
Unsurprisingly, unshoveled snow as well as layers of ice coating the sidewalk are extremely hazardous to pedestrians in the winter. Not only are these conditions dangerous for those walking down the street, but they also leave pedestrians vulnerable to cars that are unable to stop due to the slippery roads. Many crashes occur when pedestrians are in a crosswalk and cars do not see them when making left or right turns due to the snow.
Speed
If you are walking too fast on street slick with slush, ice and snow, slip and fall accidents are extremely common. Making sure to walk slow enough to not slip as well as see obstructions in your path is crucial to your safety.
Visibility
Heavy snowfall, such as a blizzard or snow paired with high wind, makes visibility severely decrease for pedestrians. This makes it difficult to make eye contact with drivers on the road or see obstacles in the path before it is too late.
In the winter months, pedestrian fatality increases because it gets dark earlier in the day. The combination of low visibility due to snow and low visibility due to the lack of light make a dangerous combination.
Winter is a dangerous season for pedestrians. The best way to stay safe is to plan ahead by checking the weather and dressing appropriately or finding alternate transportation.
