Car accidents are bad enough when they involve two or more vehicles, but they can become even deadlier when they involve pedestrians. Each and every day, we are all pedestrians at some point whether it be on a sidewalk, crossing to the office, or walking in a parking lot. It is an unsettling truth that the number of accidents involving pedestrians is rising each year.
According to the Governor’s Highway Safety Association (GHSA), in 2020, 7,485 pedestrians were killed in car accidents, that’s the highest number of pedestrian fatalities recorded in the past 4 decades.
The number of pedestrian injury cases has been rising as well. Data analyzed by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration indicates “the percentage of speeding-related pedestrian crashes involving children ages 15 and younger more than doubled in the previous three years.”
Causes of Pedestrian Involved Vehicle Accidents
Speeding is a major contributing factor to the rising pedestrian death tolls. According to the GHSA, “The average risk of death for pedestrians increases exponentially the faster a vehicle is traveling, from 10% at 23 mph to 90% at 58 mph.” Of course, distracted driving and impairment of either the driver or the pedestrian are also frequent factors.
Pickup trucks and SUVs are significantly more likely to be involved in pedestrian fatalities than smaller cars. The heavier weight and reduced visibility of big and tall vehicles is cited as a contributing factor to pedestrian fatalities.
Safety Tips For Drivers
- Always keep an eye out for pedestrians even when not at an intersection or crosswalk.
- Use extra caution when driving in less than ideal conditions like inclement weather or at night.
- Always slow down at any intersection.
- Yield to pedestrians at intersections and crosswalks.
- Stop well back from the crosswalk to give other vehicles an opportunity to see the pedestrians.
- Never pass vehicles stopped at a crosswalk or intersection.
- Never drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
- Follow the speed limit at all times.
- Be cautious when backing up, always checking for pedestrians behind you.
Safety Tips For Pedestrians
- Obey all signs and signals when crossing the street.
- Walk on a sidewalk when available.
- When no sidewalk is available, walk facing the traffic and as far from traffic as possible.
- Always cross the street at a crosswalk or intersection.
- Always watch for cars entering or exiting driveways or backing up in parking lots.
- Avoid alcohol and drugs when walking since they impair your judgment just as they do a driver’s.
Vehicle Accident Attorney
As a pedestrian, you have rights when sharing the road and sidewalks with vehicles. If you have been injured as a pedestrian in an accident you should contact a vehicle accident attorney near Hamilton, Ohio. The Richards Firm has experience representing injured pedestrians and focuses on making sure you get the compensation to which you are entitled.
We can be reached at 513-868-2731, ext. 219 or visit us at https://richardsinjuryfirm.com.
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