How to be a Happy (and safer) Pedestrian

It might come as a surprise to some, but when on or near the road, pedestrians also have responsibilities, and risk being fined in some instances, such as activities that make them even more vulnerable as they already are, and although drivers need to be aware and cautious, so do those on foot.

When there is a pavement next to the road, pedestrians are obliged to use it, and not walk on the road. In fact, the only times pedestrians should be on the road are if there isn´t a pavement, in which case you should walk towards oncoming traffic, and if you are crossing the road, for which there are additional rules.

If there is a crossing in the vicinity, or a bridge, you must use that crossing, if not, you are permitted to cross most roads, when safe to do so, but must do so straight across the road, not diagonally or zig zagging.

In towns, when there is a pavement, you should try to keep to the centre of the pavement, staying away from the curb so as to reduce the risk of being hit by a vehicle.

Children should always go hand in hand with adults. But they also have to play in safe spaces and away from the road.

When it comes to pets, the rules are clear, pedestrians cannot be accompanied by loose animals, they could create dangerous situations for other users of public roads.

Although there are many more rules we can go through, these are the basics, but in this modern world we must add what the DGT says about our accompanying devices. “Both in the city and on the road, it is essential that pedestrians avoid using their mobile phones and listening to music or the radio with headphones.” This is the advice from the General Directorate of Traffic which shows that pedestrians also have obligations. “By distracting you, it isolates you from traffic and makes you even more vulnerable to being run over,” they emphasise.