Walking Safety in Urban Areas

Walking is a great exercise, although it can be more
challenging on busy city streets. Whether you’re walking for transportation or fitness, it’s important to be careful in urban areas. Serious pedestrian accidents occur more often in urban than in rural areas.

Safety tips for enjoying a walk in the city:

Choose routes that are well used, well lit, and safe.

Walk on a sidewalk or a path whenever possible.

Check out city parks. Many parks have walking or jogging trails away from traffic.

Stay alert at all times. If you’re listening to music while you walk, turn down the volume so you can still hear bike bells and warnings from other walkers and runners coming up behind you.

Carry your ID with emergency contact information, and bring along a phone and a small amount of cash.

If possible, walk during daylight hours.

Cross at crosswalks or intersections. Jaywalking increases your risk of a serious accident.

Pay attention to the traffic signal. Cross only when you have the pedestrian crossing signal, and look both ways as you cross.

Never assume a driver sees you crossing a street. Try to make eye contact with drivers as they approach.

Be seen to be safe. Wear brightly colored clothing during the day, and wear reflective materials or carry a flashlight at night.

This information is brought to you by the National Institute on Aging at the National Institute of Health.