Most elderly pedestrian fatalities result from inattention or carelessness, medical conditions or the effects of medication. Therefore it is important that elderly pedestrians take street crossing seriously and appreciate the dangers. With increasing numbers of Australian streets getting signed at 50kph or even 40kph it is important for elderly pedestrians to appreciate that there is a very serious risk posed at those speeds even if they are hit by a relatively small vehicle. Although most elderly pedestrian fatalities occur during the daytime it is important to note that evening pedestrian incidents often involve alcohol on the part of the pedestrian. Thus elderly pedestrians should be particularly careful not to get too intoxicated if they are going to be walking near traffic.
Because peripheral vision diminishes as people get older, reflexes slow and the ability to move quickly and in an agile manner decrease, it can take longer to cross the road and it is harder to deal with situations that require prompt evasive action. Also, because eyesight and hearing often become less acute the judgement of traffic distance and speed can become less accurate.
Therefore elderly pedestrians should allow themselves plenty of time to cross the road. They should make eye contact with drivers if possible to ensure that they are noticed. They should use marked crossings if possible. Also it is important to not take any chances and to stop before crossing the road so as to allow time to check for traffic and make appropriate decisions.