If you enjoy walking or jogging as a way to exercise or you need to walk to work because you do not have access to public transportation or a vehicle, focus on your safety. Moreover, if you were recently involved in a pedestrian accident, make sure you look into the legal options available to you. Sadly, many pedestrians sustain serious injuries and even die as a result of careless drivers.
When traffic collisions involve pedestrians, the likelihood of a disastrous outcome is especially high.
How many pedestrians die each year?
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that over the course of 2018, over 6,200 pedestrians died in traffic collisions. During 2017, 70% of the pedestrians who lost their lives were men, according to the NHTSA. In 2017, pedestrians died every 88 minutes in traffic accidents, on average. Sadly, the number of pedestrian fatalities increased by 3% in 2018. Negligent drivers who cause these fatalities must answer for their actions.
How can pedestrians avoid accidents?
As a pedestrian, you need to recognize times when it is especially dangerous to walk on the road. For example, more pedestrian deaths take place between 6 and 9 PM than other time periods. Pedestrians must remain alert and keep an eye out for vehicles, especially when crossing the road. Bright clothing increases visibility and helps drivers see pedestrians and it is important for pedestrians to stay off of the road while impaired due to alcohol use. Drivers also play a key role in preventing pedestrian accidents, but some drivers do not pay attention or observe traffic safety guidelines.