Unlike drivers and motorcyclists, pedestrians don’t have the same protection from collisions. This leaves them more vulnerable to injury or even death.
Studies show that 7,485 pedestrians died in 2021, an increase of 12% from 2020.
To keep yourself safe, be aware of the top causes of pedestrian accidents.
- Lack of Infrastructure. Some areas, especially rural areas, are more car-dependent and don’t have sidewalks, making it riskier for pedestrians to travel.
- Distracted Driving. Texting while driving, eating, using a navigation system while driving, or taking part in any other activity that diverts your attention from driving puts your life and others at risk.
- Poor visibility. Walking at night with lack of street lights or dark clothes makes it harder for drivers to see you. In addition, poor weather conditions or poor/malfunctioning headlights reduce visibility.
- Failing to yield to the right of way. Both drivers and pedestrians must pay attention to crosswalks and traffic signals. You can’t always assume that the other person is following signals. Jaywalking is when a pedestrian crosses the road without a signal or while there is traffic.
- Careless driving. Driver negligence can include running red lights, speeding, or not looking over the shoulder before changing lanes.
- Driving while impaired. A driver who is under the influence of drugs, alcohol, or both is adding an enormous amount of risk to the roadway.
- Walking while impaired. Walking while under the influence may cause you to miss traffic signals or trip and fall in traffic.
- Driving while sleep-deprived. Did you know that driving without adequate sleep can be just as dangerous as driving while drunk? This is because your brain will “micro-sleep”, or sleep temporarily, while you are driving.
Most recent data from the National Safety Council indicates that pedestrian accidents are most likely to happen in urban areas, on the open road, and during low-light conditions.
Try to avoid walking in these conditions, and driving when you are impaired, distracted, or sleep-deprived.
Kevin Crooks Will Handle Your Case As You Recover.
Have you been involved in an accident as a pedestrian? You may qualify for compensation. Compensation can cover medical expenses, pain, and suffering, income loss, and property damage and can help you get back on your feet after your injury. Give us a call at (502)771-0741 and we can discuss your case for free.
