If you spend enough time walking around any city, you start to notice how close calls happen all the time — a car rolling too far into a crosswalk, someone darting across the street mid-text, or headlights that appear out of nowhere. The scary part is that most of these moments are avoidable.
In 2023, more than 7,500 pedestrians were killed in the U.S., the highest number in over 40 years. That’s not just a statistic—that’s thousands of families who lost someone because a driver was distracted, a road was poorly lit, or someone took a risk they didn’t think twice about.
St. Louis, Missouri, is a city full of character, from the Gateway Arch overseeing the skyline to busy downtown streets and neighborhoods like The Hill or Soulard, where people are often out walking to grab food or meet friends. However, like many cities of its size, accidents still occur—not just vehicle collisions. Slip and fall incidents are also common. Understanding the compensation available to slip and fall victims in St. Louis can help you know what legal and financial assistance may be available if an accident occurs.
1. Stay Off the Phone
We live in a distracted world. Drivers check notifications at stoplights, and pedestrians scroll TikTok while crossing the street. All it takes is one second of distraction for something bad to happen.
If you’re driving, keep your phone out of reach. If you’re walking, take your earbuds out when crossing. Make eye contact with the driver before stepping off the curb. That small gesture alone can prevent a misunderstanding that could turn deadly.
2. Use Crosswalks, Even When It’s Inconvenient
Most people who get hit by cars aren’t in crosswalks. According to the NHTSA, about three-quarters of pedestrian deaths happen outside intersections. That’s a huge number for something as simple as crossing where you’re supposed to.
Yes, sometimes the crosswalk may be out of the way, but consider the trade-off: a few extra steps versus risking your life. Always wait for the signal, and if there’s no traffic light, cross at a well-lit area where drivers can see you. It’s not just about rules; it’s about visibility and predictability.
3. Be Visible After Dark
More than half of all pedestrian deaths happen at night. And it’s not just because it’s dark—it’s because people assume drivers can see them when they can’t.
If you’re walking after sunset, wear something light or reflective. Even better, clip a small light onto your bag or use your phone’s flashlight when crossing. Drivers should also help out by keeping headlights clean and using high beams when the road is empty.
A good rule: if you think “they can probably see me,” assume they can’t.
4. Pay Attention
Sometimes, environmental hazards, rather than individual actions, cause accidents. A damaged sidewalk, loose gravel, or a street that isn’t well-lit can all cause people to slip, fall, or suddenly move into traffic.
Be careful where you walk, especially when it’s raining or snowing. Report persistent hazards, such as a broken streetlight or a crosswalk that isn’t level. When people speak up, cities frequently fix problems faster. It’s one of those little things that really keeps everyone safe.
Pedestrian safety doesn’t come down to luck. It’s about habits—small, conscious choices that add up. The more aware we all are, the safer the streets become for everyone, whether you’re behind the wheel or walking home after dinner.
Key Takeaways
- Be careful; most accidents happen because people are distracted.
- Always use signals and crosswalks.
- Stay visible, especially at night.
- Watch for environmental hazards and report them.