What Causes Pedestrian Accidents?
Pedestrian-related accidents can be attributed to a number of different factors, but some of the most common culprits include:
- Speeding: A fast-moving vehicle is a frequent enemy of the pedestrian, as a speeding driver may not have time to notice or react to a person on the street.
- Poor Road Design: Drivers are not always at fault, as many opportunities surrounding improving safety measures for pedestrians exist—including the development of additional overpasses, underpasses and more pedestrian-friendly sidewalks and bus stops.
- Negligence: Pedestrian collisions often occur as a result of a driver who is either distracted, not abiding by the laws and rules of the road, or combination of the two.
Who’s at Risk?
Pedestrians of all ages are at risk of injury or death from traffic crashes. According to the CDC, however, the following types of people are at a higher risk than others:
- Teen and young adult (ages 15-29 years) pedestrians are more likely to be treated in emergency departments for crash-related injuries compared to any other age group.
- The rate of pedestrian death generally increases with age.
- In 2012, 34% of all pedestrians killed in traffic crashes were legally drunk, with a blood alcohol concentration of greater than or equal to 0.08 grams per deciliter.
- As pedestrians, children are at even greater risk of injury or death from traffic crashes due to their small size, inability to judge distances and speeds, and lack of experience with traffic rules.
Steps to Take for Pedestrian Safety
There are numerous things that pedestrians can do to protect themselves from the dangers of walking on roads and streets. Notable prevention methods include:
- Paying attention to rules of traffic
- Using common sense when approaching and interacting with traffic
- Crossing the street at a designated crosswalk or intersection whenever possible
- Increasing visibility at night by carrying a flashlight and/or wearing reflective clothing
While having a heightened sense of the dangers surrounding moving vehicles can help walkers avoid potential crashes and injuries, these types of unfortunate occurrences continue to happen on a daily basis—and without any warning.
If you or someone close to you has been injured in Arizona, contact an experienced and successful Tempe auto accident attorney to help assess your rights. With over 30 years of experience, the Simon Law Group will provide a free and confidential consultation when you call 480-745-2450 or click on “Contact Our Firm” and will do everything it takes help you during this painful and difficult time.
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