Pedestrian Safety Advice
Scotland
This year, with visitors permitted to visit Scotland again, more pedestrians are taking the opportunity to enjoy our beautiful country and explore what’s on our doorstep. This means more traffic on the roads and walkers near to the roadside.
We’re asking for road users and pedestrians to stay extra vigilant when visiting tourist hotspots to avoid incidents and keep everyone safe on their travels.
Advice for pedestrians
- Always consider the safety of yourself and others when walking near busy roads. Just because you can see the traffic doesn’t mean the drivers can see you.
- Take the time to look around you and be aware of the traffic in the area. Don’t stand with your back to the traffic next to the kerb.
- If there is no pavement, stick to the right-hand side of the road so that you can see oncoming traffic. Keep close to the side of the road and walk in a single file.
- Only cross the road at pedestrian crossings, traffic lights or on a long straight stretch of road where you can see what’s coming both ways.
- If you must step onto the road, check both ways first.
- Plan your walk ahead – stick to footpaths and pedestrian crossing points where possible.
- Take extra care of any children with you and keep them away from the carriageway. Hold their hand firmly.
- Out for a jog or a run on the road in rural areas? Don’t wear earphones. Listening safety is as important as visual.
- Pedestrians MUST NOT be on motorways or slip roads unless in an emergency.
Advice for road users:
- Slow down in busy areas.
- Stay vigilant of vulnerable road users, including pedestrians, cyclists, motorcyclists and horse riders.
- When entering a car park, be aware of pedestrians behind vehicles who may step out in front.
- Be careful when reversing or manoeuvring, check your blind spot and continually check your surroundings.
- Stay within the speed limit and avoid distractions such as mobile phones and sat-navs.
- Park your car safely and legally to enjoy the scenery around you, don’t take your eyes off the road ahead.
More information about pedestrian safety can be found on the Highway Code website and on Road Safety Scotland’s website.