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With many companies implementing in-person work mandates in 2025, commuting is becoming more common. As a result, staying safe as a commuter—particularly in winter—has never been more crucial. Preparing for factors such as freezing temperatures, icy sidewalks, and low visibility can ensure your safety and make for a smoother work week.
Dress Warmly
Be prepared to stay outside for an extended time in case your commute is delayed. Dressing in layers and a waterproof or water-resistant jacket can help you to keep warm during this time. If disposed of properly, hand warmers can be a safe and useful warming device in frigid temperatures. Disposable air-activated hand warmers are the most commonly used type and are flammable if exposed to high heat or an open flame. Air-activated hand warmers usually last about 6-10 hours; after that, they are disposable, safe, and have a low fire risk.
Consider wearing a scarf or hat during cold commute times. If your extremities turn from feeling pain to numbness, do not take this as a sign of warmth, and seek shelter as soon as possible.
Wear Appropriate Footwear
For commute days with winter conditions, choose shoes or boots with non-slip soles for better traction on ice and snow. If you are commuting into a formal work setting, consider bringing a change of dress shoes.
Many outdoor retailers sell crampons that can be attached to your shoes for added grip. While this piece of equipment is not essential for urban areas, it may be helpful in very icy conditions.
Stay Visible
Many commutes occur when there is no or little daylight, so using bright or reflective clothing increases visibility to drivers. Carry a flashlight (or have your phone flashlight accessible) in low-light conditions. Reflective gear, even when incorporated in gloves or hats, can help drivers see you in the dark. When possible, stay on well-lit streets and sidewalks.
Make eye contact with drivers before crossing the street to ensure they see you.
Walk with Care
Before leaving for your commute or commuting home at the end of the day, it is helpful to notify a roommate or a family member of your whereabouts in case of an emergency.
In winter conditions, slow down and take shorter steps to maintain balance on slippery surfaces. Watch for black ice, especially in shaded areas or where snow has melted and refrozen. Be cautious around snowplows and snow removal equipment if walking on an adjacent sidewalk.
Lastly, it is important to keep your hands out of your pockets to help maintain balance and avoid looking at your phone while walking.
Use Designated Crosswalks
Before crossing a street, use a designated crosswalk and obey traffic signals. Additionally, make eye contact with stopping traffic before crossing the street.
Avoid jaywalking, especially in winter conditions when drivers may have reduced control of their vehicles.
Keep Sidewalks Clear
If you're a homeowner, clear your sidewalks of snow and ice to help others stay safe. Adding salt or sand to your driveway or sidewalk can provide better traction for commuters.
Contact Our Experts
If a pedestrian accident occurs during your commute, the CED Technologies team of engineers is available to investigate the cause of the event. Our Premise Liability and Transportation experts have years of experience in thoroughly investigating pedestrian accidents.
Our experts can offer a full report on the severity of the weather conditions, a weather timeline, the snow and ice management systems employed before the event, and the overall topography of the specific incident location to accurately determine the factors leading to the accident. Stay safe and careful during your commute during this winter season!
