What is considered the safest way to cross a street?

The safest way to cross a street is to look both ways and use crosswalks. This approach ensures that pedestrians are vigilant about oncoming traffic from both directions, which significantly reduces the risk of accidents. By looking both ways, individuals are more aware of their surroundings and can identify any vehicles that may not be following traffic rules. Utilizing crosswalks is equally important, as these designated areas are specifically meant for pedestrians to cross safely. They often come with signals or signage that alert drivers to watch for pedestrians, thereby providing an added layer of protection for those crossing the street.

In contrast, running across when clear can lead to misjudgment of vehicle speeds or the reactions of drivers, creating dangerous situations. Crossing at any point disregards traffic signals and may occur in risky areas where visibility is poor. Lastly, only crossing at night disregards the principle of being aware and cautious at all times, as visibility conditions can change regardless of the time of day. Therefore, combining careful observation and using crosswalks represents the best practice for pedestrian safety.