Crosswalk injuries can occur at marked and unmarked intersections as painted lines offered no physical protection for the pedestrians traveling from corner to corner. In fact, studies have indicated that marked crosswalks are more dangerous, perhaps because pedestrians feel less of a need to remain attentive while walking into painted path. Most injuries occurring at crosswalks are grave and are sustained by the pedestrians rather than the motorists involved.

The Pros and Cons of Marked Crosswalks
Marked crosswalks help motorists see pedestrians more easily and can serve as a reminder to drivers to travel slowly and with caution even if they are empty. Marked crosswalks help pedestrians navigate traffic and clearly display the shortest and safest path to travel to get from one set of road to the other.

On the other hand marked crosswalks can contribute to an erroneous sense of safety when pedestrians are confident the drivers will stop because of the delineated walkway. In some cases crosswalks marked for pedestrian use that are not accompanied with a stop sign or a light can cause intersection collisions due to sudden unexpected and unpredictable stops.

The debate over marked and unmarked crosswalks has not fully been resolved but pedestrian and motorist action can be taken to limit the injuries that occur.

Pedestrians Can Prevent Crosswalk Accidents
There many things pedestrians can do to prevent accidents and avoid the injuries occurring at crosswalks. First and foremost, those walking should pay attention at crosswalks and not depend on the painted white lines for protection. Cross on the light at all times and look around while stepping onto the road. Make eye contact with drivers whenever possible and avoid listening to music on headphones so loud that is impossible to hear motors and traffic about you. Stay especially aware if you are on your cell phone and walk at a reasonable pace in a predictable manner. Walk defensively; expecting that other pedestrians, motorists and individuals on bicycles, skateboards or roller skates will not be paying as much attention as they should be.

Drivers Can Minimize Crosswalk Accident Risks
Motorists stand to lose the least physically in a crosswalk accident but stand to lose the most financially in terms of legal liability. Distracted driving must be avoided when approaching any intersection especially those with crosswalks and keep in mind that might does not equal right in the eyes of the law regarding pedestrian injuries. Follow speeds limits, especially exercising caution when driving near playgrounds, parks or schools where children may be. Do not text, talk on a cell phone, fiddle with the dashboard controls, eat, apply makeup or attempt to read a newspaper while driving even when traveling locally at speeds under 25 mph. Although these instructions may seem like common sense they are easy to forget. Constant vigilance is a must.