4,000 Pounds Versus YOU

4,000 Pounds Versus YOU

Do you know how much a car weighs? According to slate.com, the weight of cars in 2010 were approximately 788 pounds heavier than they were in 1987. As cars as getting heavier, more pedestrians are getting hurt. An article on abc10.com states that there was a 30 percent increase in the number of pedestrians killed from 2007 to 2016.

This got me wondering, what are the main causes for loss of pedestrian life?

  • Poor visibility in the dark
  • Distracted drivers
  • Drunk drivers
  • Drowsiness while driving
  • Speeding

These are all things that are relatively within our control. As drivers, it’s obvious which safety measures we should take to ensure safety for everyone on the road. But, what can people traveling by foot or bike do to protect themselves?

What is the number one way to effectively protect yourself as a pedestrian at night?

Reflective gear. Seems pretty simple. Problem: poor visibility. Solution: reflective gear that makes you very easy to see. You see it in your everyday life: on bicyclists, construction workers, crossing guards, etc.

Reflective gear is bright, neon colored clothing that works by converting UV rays in sunlight to be seen like a light by the eye. The colors are usually a vivid contrast against the surrounding environment. It works particularly well during the day. However, it’s crucial to include true reflective tape on your gear when traveling in the evening. The combination of both the reflective clothing and the tape has a significantly greater chance of saving your life than the clothing alone.

More tips for pedestrians:

  • Follow the traditional rules of the road. Do not jaywalk or make sudden, unexpected movements. Wait for the light to signal that it’s safe to cross.
  • Be aware of what’s going on around you. Avoid staring at your cell phone. Watch where you are walking and always look for cars.
  • Make eye contact with cars before crossing the road.
  • Avoid walking while intoxicated, when your judgment is impaired.

Please use good judgment and avoid putting your life at risk while going for your jog, walk, or bike ride.

By: KayLynn P.


Do you have questions about your insurance? Find an insurance agent near you with our Agent Finder

Buzz Your
Insurance Agent

Search for a local agent with our agent finder map.

Agent Finder

Search All Blogs

Generic filters

Buzz Your
Insurance Agent

Search for a local agent with our agent finder map.

Agent Finder

Want to learn more about
our blog writer?

Read more about KayLynn's background.

Search All Blogs

Generic filters

Read More Insurance Blogs

The October Promise: A Time to Secure Your Family’s Future

A thoughtful guide to understanding life insurance and securing your family’s future.

Beyond a Payout: How Life Insurance is a Living Financial Tool

A guide to how life insurance can be a living financial tool, with a focus on its cash value component.

The Gift of Security: A Simple Guide to Life Insurance

An easy-to-understand guide to life insurance, explaining policy types and a simple way to calculate your needs.

Your Legacy, Your Promise: A Practical Guide to Life Insurance

A clear, practical guide to life insurance, explaining term vs. permanent policies and how to calculate your needs.

Straightforward Answers to Your Life Insurance Questions

Get quick, direct answers to your most common life insurance questions, including affordability and medical exams.

A Global Look at Life Insurance: Trends and Triumphs

From the U.S. to China, explore the surprising global trends and facts about life insurance.

Whole Life Insurance: Is it a Worthwhile Investment?

Confused about whole life insurance as an investment? We break down the unique benefits beyond a simple payout.

Confronting Your Fears: Practical Steps Towards a Fearless Life

Tired of being held back by fear? Discover actionable techniques to confront and conquer your anxieties.

Beyond “How Was Your Day?”: Engaging Your Kids with Deeper Questions

Get your kids talking with these open-ended questions.

Beyond the List: What Your Bucket List Really Says About You

The hidden meaning and power of your bucket list.