Pedestrian Accidents
Although walking, jogging, and hiking seems to be a safe activity for most, the unfortunate fact is that a simple walk across the street or even a jog down the sidewalk can potentially result in severe physical injuries.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s pedestrian accident report released in 2012:
- In 2010, 4,280 pedestrians were killed in traffic-related accidents. This is a 4% increase from 2009.
- In the same year, 70,000 pedestrians were injured. 14,000 of those injured were children under the age of 14.
- Males account for the most pedestrian injuries in 2010, at 58%.
- 73% of the fatalities happened in urban areas, with 68% occurring during night hours.
- 47% of the pedestrian fatalities involved drivers under the influence of alcohol.
- 19% of all children in the United States between the ages of 5 through 9, were killed in traffic-related pedestrian accidents.
In an effort to decrease the likelihood of future traffic-related pedestrian accidents, NHTSA prepared a warning statement, and encourages all pedestrians, as well as drivers, to adhere to it:
- Drivers should always remember to yield right-of-way to pedestrians at crosswalks, and pay extra attention while at intersections.
- Pedestrians should always cross streets at designated crosswalks if possible. Always remember to look in all directions before crossing.
- Pedestrians should carry a flashlight and wearing reflective clothing when walking or jogging at night.
- If pedestrians have to walk in the street, it should always be towards facing traffic.
If you’ve been involved in a traffic-related pedestrian accident, the experienced pedestrian accident lawyers at Ledger & Associates can help you. We’ve helped numerous clients recover the damages they deserve. Get in contact with us so we can start the process of helping you as well.
Sources: http://www.nhtsa.gov/Pedestrians
http://www-nrd.nhtsa.dot.gov/Pubs/811625.pdf
