The EMPD has seen an increase in the number of pedestrian incidents, mostly from unsafe behaviour, which frequently leads to significant injuries or even fatalities.

In addition to obeying the law, every driver is responsible for ensuring their and other people’s safety.

Several circumstances cause road accidents involving pedestrians, including intoxicated pedestrians, careless driving, inattentive or distracted pedestrians, pedestrians ignoring or disobeying traffic signals, and negligent or reckless pedestrians.

Here are 10 tips for pedestrians to stay safe on the road:

• Always obey road signs and traffic lights.

• When crossing a street, you must first ensure there is no oncoming traffic and look both ways.

• Never assume someone has seen you because several disruptions may catch the interest of drivers.

• Ensure drivers see you by making eye contact.

• Always stay off the roads when drunk.

• You are more visible when wearing reflective or light-coloured apparel.

• Walk next to the road until both lanes are clear, and then cross safely. Do not stop halfway across the road.

• Keep concentrating. Walking in traffic when preoccupied can be fatal.

• Use the pathways and pavements. If there is no pavement, face the direction of the approaching traffic and stay as close to the road’s edge as possible.

• Cross the road only at a traffic signal or pedestrian crossing, if possible.