Unfortunately, pedestrian accidents happen more than you would think. Walking is used as a means for transportation as well as leisure. While most of the time you don’t hear about pedestrian accidents, they do occur. The following are pedestrian accident statistics from the NHTSA:
- In 2016 there were 5,987 deaths due to pedestrian accidents.
- A pedestrian is killed every 1.5 hours due to traffic crashes.
- The highest percentage of pedestrian fatalities occur between 6:00 pm and 8:59 pm.
By understanding the causes behind pedestrian accidents, we hope drivers and pedestrians become more careful. Here are the top causes of pedestrian accidents:
Unmarked Crosswalks
Walking across an unmarked crosswalk is one of the leading causes of pedestrian accidents. If you are walking across an unmarked crosswalk be extremely observant of oncoming traffic. For drivers, if you are in a high foot traffic area, slow down and be very cautious of pedestrians.
Distractions
While texting and driving is illegal in most states, one in three drivers still text while driving. Distracted driving, in general, is the leading cause of car accidents. Being distracted as a driver or a walking pedestrian is unsafe. Many drivers cause accidents while distracted. On the other hand, pedestrians also cause accidents while being distracted. Both drivers and pedestrians must focus on the road they are driving or walking on to prevent accidents.
Dark Clothes
Most pedestrian accidents occur when the sun goes down. Darkness makes it harder to see a driver or pedestrian. It doesn’t help when a pedestrian wears dark clothes at night. If you walk around at night in poorly lit areas, carry a flashlight around so drivers can see you better. It also helps if you wear brighter clothes rather than dark. When it is dark, both drivers and pedestrians need to be extra careful to prevent a pedestrian accident.
Alcohol & Drugs
When a driver is under the influence of alcohol or drugs, they are much more likely to cause a pedestrian accident. A pedestrian under the influence of alcohol or drugs is also more likely to put themselves at risk of a pedestrian accident. If you are drinking, never get behind the wheel. If you are drinking and walking, make sure to practice pedestrian safety.
Left Turns
When a driver is making a left turn, drivers who are not paying attention only look to their right before making the turn. If a pedestrian is crossing when an inattentive driver turns left, there is a high chance for an accident. If you are crossing the street next to a left turn, be cautious of oncoming drivers. If you are driving, make sure you look both ways before making a left turn.
If you are Involved in a Pedestrian Accident
If you are involved in a pedestrian accident you should strongly consider working with one of the many Tampa personal injury law firms. Dealing with a personal injury case on your own can be extremely difficult. For Florida residents, Tampa personal injury attorney Dan Zohar of DZ Firm is here to help you build a strong claim. Dan Zohar has over 30 years of experience dealing with personal injury cases as is ready to assist you in receiving the compensation you deserve.
Contact The Law Office of Dan Zohar today and schedule a free consultation with Tampa personal injury lawyer, Dan Zohar PA. Call today toll free at (800) 963-3311!