Final answer:
A vulnerable road user is someone at a higher risk of injury in a collision. Drivers must be vigilant and take steps to protect them, such as following traffic laws, giving space, and using turn signals.
Step-by-step explanation:
In road safety, a vulnerable road user refers to individuals such as pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists who are at a higher risk of injury or harm in the event of a road traffic collision. Drivers must take several steps to protect vulnerable road users:
- Be vigilant and aware of their surroundings, constantly scanning for pedestrians and cyclists.
- Observe and obey traffic laws, including speed limits and yielding right-of-way to pedestrians at crosswalks.
- Give ample space when passing vulnerable road users, allowing a safe distance between vehicles and individuals.
- Use turn signals to indicate intentions, allowing pedestrians and cyclists to anticipate vehicle movements.
- Ensure proper maintenance of vehicles, including functioning brakes and lights for better visibility.