At Home

Even when we know the area, we can become distracted walkers. Fifty-two percent (52%) of distracted walking incidents occur at home according to the National Safety Council. Talking on phones, using tablets, monitoring children or pets, etc. Multitasking throughout our daily lives can be distracting. In the time it takes us to look down or away, accidents can happen around the home, so keep your Heads Up Alaska.

Distracted Outside

Outside distractions can be dangerous. There are many more factors you cannot control. Despite best efforts to stay safe, mother nature is not predictable and can make well-known pathways a hazard. When we are distracted, the chance of injury is increased, and often avoidable. Keep your Heads Up Alaska.

Currently, when outdoor events are so prevalent for summer celebrations It is important to be extra cautious. When attending outdoor activities or special events, be sure you are looking out for others, whether they are pedestrians, animals, cars, etc. That call, text or post will wait until you are in a safe location and stationary position. Keep your Heads Up Alaska. When out walking, avoid distracting devices until you are seated and unfettered.

Heads Up Alaska

Pedestrians:

• Use Crosswalks: Always cross streets at designated crosswalks or intersections. Avoid jaywalking.
• Be Visible: Wear bright or reflective clothing, especially during low-light hours and overcast days.
• Avoid Distractions: Stay off your phone and remove headphones when crossing streets. Make eye contact with drivers before stepping onto the road. Keep your Heads Up Alaska.
• Obey Traffic Signals: Wait for the “walk” signal and check all directions before crossing.
• Walk Facing Traffic: If sidewalks are not available, walk on the shoulder facing oncoming traffic.

Drivers:

• Yield to Pedestrians: Always stop for pedestrians in crosswalks. Be especially cautious in school zones and neighborhoods.
• Stay Alert: Eliminate distractions. Watch for pedestrians at all times, especially in low-visibility conditions. Keep your Heads Up Alaska.
• Slow Down: Drive at safe speeds and be prepared to stop unexpectedly, particularly in high foot-traffic areas.
• Follow the Law: Obey all traffic signs and signals. Never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Whether you are at home, hiking Alaska’s Trails, or enjoying outdoor activities that Alaska’s summers bring, Keep your Heads Up Alaska. Remind those in your family or group to pay attention to where they are walking and their surroundings.

Part Three of a three-part series. See: Part One: Walk Aware Alaska and Part Two: Alaska Cell Phone Distractions

Johnson Law has been helping Alaskans for nearly 30 years. It’s who we are. Call Johnson Law at  (907)277-3090 or use our Contact Form to discuss your Alaska accident injury case. We are here to serve you.

And while we hope you never need us… We’re here if you do. ~ Doug Johnson

Sources: Occupational Health & Safety; Alaska’s News Source

Image Source: Alaska’s News Source

Cell Phone Distractions: The Statistics

In fact, studies link Cell Phone Distractions with walking injuries. Just as with distracted driving, the culprit for distracted walking is often cell phone use. When you are using your cell phone, you aren’t paying attention to your surroundings – putting both yourself and others at risk. The most recent statistics show:

• In 2019, an estimated 7,668 pedestrians died in traffic and non-traffic incidents, with 6,205 of those killed in traffic crashes on public roads.
• More than 17% of all traffic deaths were pedestrians.
• 45-74 years old’s have 20% or more pedestrian deaths as a percentage of all traffic fatalities.

Whether walking, cycling, or driving, avoid Alaska Cell Phone Distractions.

The Midnight Sun Festival

The Midnight Sun Festival, Alaska’s largest single-day event, is held annually in Fairbanks. This year it occurs on June 21st. Because thousands of people attend the free 12-hour street fair, 1st and 2nd Avenues are closed to vehicular traffic. Exhibitors offer Alaskan merchandise along with local food and services. There is even live music and gold panning. Unfortunately, it is also a time when pedestrians are so engaged with their surroundings, they are always careful. Increase your awareness and avoid Alaska Cell Phone Distractions while celebrating.

If you plan on attending The Midnight Sun Festival this year, remember:

• Walk on the sidewalk. Some streets remain open to vehicular traffic. Pedestrians must walk on the sidewalk. If there’s no sidewalk, walk facing traffic.
• Follow the rules of the road. Always follow the rules of the road. Obey all traffic signs and signals.
• Use crosswalks. Cross streets at crosswalks. In the situation where no crosswalk is available and your view is blocked, move to a place where you can view oncoming traffic.
• Don’t drink and walk. Avoid alcohol consumption when walking.
• Heads up, phone down. Avoid cell phone use and wearing headphones while walking.

We can’t say it too often… Keep Your Heads Up Alaska… Whether walking, cycling, or driving, increase your awareness and avoid Alaska Cell Phone Distractions while celebrating.

Part Two of a three-part series. See: Part One: Walk Aware Alaska and Part Three: Heads Up Alaska.

Johnson Law has been helping Alaskans for nearly 30 years. It’s who we are. Call Johnson Law at  (907)277-3090 or use our Contact Form to discuss your Alaska accident injury case. We are here to serve you.

And while we hope you never need us… We’re here if you do. ~ Doug Johnson

Source: National Safety Council

Image Source: CNN

It is no wonder that after winter’s cold, dark months, Alaskans are anxious to get outside as much as possible while there’s little or no snow on the ground. However, while the ground isn’t as slick in the summer months, Walk Aware Alaska. You should be as careful while out and about during this time of year as you are each winter.

Eyes Up, Phone Down… And More

While it’s important to note that cell phone use is a huge distraction – both as a driver and a pedestrian – another distraction not often as addressed, is becoming lost in conversation with a partner and losing track of your surroundings. Walk Aware Alaska. The National Safety Council (NSC) started the heads up, phone down campaign. However, even if you don’t have a phone in your hand, you should make sure your head is up, and there is nothing distracting you while you are out and walking.

Summer Solstice – Walk Aware Alaska

Summer Solstice events are popular in Alaska. Whether you plan on attending the 2025 Midnight Sun Festival, Annual Midnight Sun Run, or Alaska Goldpanners Midnight Sun Baseball Game, remember to Walk Aware Alaska:

• Left, right, and left again. Look left, right and left again before crossing the street. Make eye contact with drivers in oncoming vehicles to ensure they see you.
• Watch for cars. Walk Aware Alaska. Keep an eye out for motor vehicles entering or exiting driveways or backing up in parking lots.
• Children. Children younger than 10 shouldn’t cross the street unless they have an adult with them.
• Heads up. Be aware of your surroundings at all times. Avoid using any sort of electronic device while walking. Stop Distracted Walking Alaska

Part One of a three-part series. See: Part Two: Alaska Cell Phone Distractions; and Part Three: Heads Up Alaska.

Johnson Law has been helping Alaskans for nearly 30 years. It’s who we are. Call Johnson Law at  (907)277-3090 or use our Contact Form to discuss your Alaska accident injury case. We are here to serve you.

And while we hope you never need us… We’re here if you do. ~ Doug Johnson

Image created using Adobe Firefly – Prompt: Person crossing street looking at phone.