I understand new legislation is being introduced to improve pedestrian safety on pavements. These rules will ensure pavements are clear and accessible while allowing for some necessary exceptions.
As someone who walks six miles a day, I do experience some surprising behaviours. My advice to anyone walking on pavements is to be cautious as more dangers lurk than you might think. It’s natural to feel safer on pavements than on the road, but here are some potentially hazardous situations I’ve witnessed in recent months. As I walk more, I’m more likely to notice these things but it’s still shocking to experience. More issues exist than just stationary parked cars on pavements.
Mopeds
While walking at night, a moped sped towards me and came close before stopping outside a house. Clearly for food delivery and when I looked at them, they peered back like “what was I looking at?”
Mopeds and motorcycles are prohibited from being ridden on pavements with no exceptions.
Reversing Cars
A car reversed onto the pavement from a dropped curb and narrowly missed me before Christmas.
Pedestrians should be kept safe from vehicles crossing. Vehicles can reverse across pavements but only if it’s done safely and doesn’t endanger others. Such manoeuvres should be for access to a driveway and carried out safely.
Cars Parking
Parking on pavements is becoming stricter. However, I’ve seen some very reckless drivers manoeuvring on pavements close to me while walking. They haven’t even bothered to check or wait for pedestrians to pass. Crazy.
Cars Mounting Kerbs While Manoeuvring
I’ve also witnessed a number of times vehicles manoeuvring and turning around, while doing so, mounting pavements and riding over kerbs close to where I have been walking.
While everyone rushes, maybe all need to slow down. Too many dangerous driving actions are taking place on pavements. A real issue.
Take care and be safe.
RAC Article
https://www.rac.co.uk/drive/news/motoring-news/new-pavement-parking-rules-announced-by-dft/
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