ON THE RIGHT TRACK


Pedestrians are the most vulnerable road users. It’s important for participants to be familiar with the rules of the Highway Code and therefore not put themselves at unnecessary risk. Ian Newbery offers some advice for you to pass on to participants.


I


n 2015 a quarter of all injuries on our roads were to pedestrians and over 400 were killed. This is four times the number of cyclists killed.


Around 60% of fatalities occurred on country roads and the reason for this is that roads in non built-up areas have higher average speeds. This frequently results in more serious collisions.


The summer months are when the majority of accidents happen to those on foot and a large proportion occur in the popular tourist areas, such as Cumbria and Cornwall.*


Except for motorways and their slip roads (which should never be walked on), all public roads are open to hikers. Routes should avoid the use of roads as much as is possible and hopefully they will mainly be on paths and bridleways, but many walking routes will include a small amount of road walking. This may be only to link between footpaths or open areas, so it’s important to take care – especially on country roads with no pavements where traffic could be moving very fast.


It is also advisable to keep in single file and not to let the group stretch out too far along the road. By walking facing the traffic you will be able to see when very large vehicles are approaching, such as lorries or buses. It’s often better to stop and step as far back from the road as possible, to let these pass, than to keep walking.


You should never plan to be walking at night but if you should find that the light is poor, having a torch clearly visible at the front of the line of walkers will help drivers see you and slow down. Don’t shine the torches directly at vehicles though.


When planning your route don’t include long stretches of read and have a Leader present if a route crosses a busy road.


At railway level crossings, you MUST NOT cross or pass a stop line when the red lights show, (including a red pedestrian figure). Also, do not cross if an alarm is sounding or the barriers are being lowered. The tone of the alarm may change if another train is approaching.


By sticking to these basic guidelines and being observant at all times all our participants should have a great experience and, most importantly of all, stay safe.


Key points to remember:


• Use the pavement (including any path along the side of the road) where there is one.


• Use safe crossings where possible.


• Walk facing the traffic so that you can see approaching vehicles.


• Help others to see you by wearing or carrying something bright or fluorescent.


• Be alert and aware of your surroundings at all times.


• Be careful when crossing roads and train tracks. Stop, look and listen before you cross and don’t walk in front of approaching vehicles or trains.


• Never walk along train tracks.


*Source: racfoundation.org/motoring-faqs/safety


DofE Magazine Issue 29: SPRING 2018


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