Warnings for walking amid snow banks

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) -- With so much snow from this weekend's blizzard, even a street plowed and cleared down to the pavement can present a hazard, as pedestrians have lost access to sidewalks, and have to share the road with cars.

Many winter-related injuries or deaths aren't directly related to the storm itself. With sidewalks not plowed, many people find themselves shunted to the street, increasing the possibility for near-misses in traffic.

Even though some cities and towns require residents to clear sidewalks, it's not happening everywhere it should. Because of that, the Emergency Management Agency warns:

• Don't jump out from behind a snowbank.
• Don't assume a driver will see you, because their vision may be greatly reduced -- as well as your visibility, or ability to be seen, on the road.

Other warnings include -- don't walk out in front of traffic, forcing drivers to stop. It's much, much more difficult for cars and vehicles to stop in the slush and ice.