HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — Within the month of June there have been three pedestrians stuck by cars in Madison County.
Jaywalking is when someone crosses the street at a place that is unsafe for the pedestrian and the driver. Using crosswalk devices is the best way to keep everyone out of harm’s way.
Trooper Brandon Bailey explains why we've seen so many accidents. "It’s the summertime now, so people are getting out. Nice weather to interact with their family, and they’re kind of getting comfortable and totally disregard the rules of the roadways.”
In Alabama, pedestrians do not always have the right of way. When a person jaywalks, they must yield to cars. And when there aren’t cross walk signs or sidewalks, do your best to stay out of the way by walking on the grass beside the road. Another thing you can do is walk on the sidewalk facing oncoming traffic.
For some people these tips are just common sense.
“You see a lot of people that don’t usually look both ways and then that’s how a whole lot of accidents that end up happening," Justin Smith, a community member said.
For those traveling by car, staying at a safe distance is one of the most important things you can do. Trooper Bailey says you can determine the length you should follow another car by doubling the speed limit.
“If the speed limit on the interstate is 70 mph, the law says that you need to be at least 140 feet back," Trooper Bailey said.