Based on the statistics that have been reported, many common pedestrian acts, such as going for a walk or run, have become rather dangerous. Looking over trends from recent years, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that roughly 129, 000 pedestrians required treatment in emergency rooms for non-fatal crash-related injuries in 2015. The CDC has also reported that in 2016, 5, 987 pedestrians died in traffic crashes. Additionally, the National Center for Health Statistics estimated that in 2017 there were 7, 450 pedestrian deaths in traffic or non-traffic incidents. Pedestrian accidents can result in serious injuries, extensive medical costs, or wrongful death.
In many cases, injuries to pedestrians occur due to negligence on the part of drivers of motor vehicles. To avoid being seriously injured in a collision with a car or truck, pedestrians can take these measures to try to stay safe:
- Use crosswalks: Marked crosswalks should be used whenever available. Those who cross the street at a time or place that is “convenient” rather than in designated crossing areas are at a much higher risk of injury.
- Sidewalks and paths are safer than streets: Designated areas for people who are on foot, such as a sidewalk or path, are much safer and more practical than the road. Some circumstances, such as road construction, may cause an authorized pedestrian path to be unavailable. In situations like this, a pedestrian should walk on the shoulder of the road, facing traffic. Being able to see oncoming traffic could help a person traverse the road more safely.
- Know your surroundings: By paying attention to the area around them, pedestrians may be able to reduce the risk of injury. It is best to avoid using a cell phone while walking and keep the volume low when listening to music.
- Increase Visibility: Wearing appropriate attire could help a pedestrian avoid an accident. For example, if a person were to go for a walk or run at night, wearing reflective clothing or using a flashlight can help make sure they can be seen by drivers.
- Avoid substance use: The use of drugs or alcohol can reduce a pedestrian’s ability to think and act quickly. Remaining in full control of one’s senses can help a person avoid being struck by a vehicle
- Do not make assumptions: Traffic laws should not be taken for granted. A pedestrian may believe that a car is going to obey a sign or traffic signal, but unfortunately, that is not always the case.
- Stay alert: Accidents can happen at any time, so a pedestrian should always be on their toes. Anyone crossing the street should look both ways every time and double-check before acting.
Contact a Green Bay Personal Injury Attorney
For pedestrians who are involved in an accident, the road to recovery can often be difficult, and it may involve costly medical treatment, lost income while recovering, permanent disability, and physical and emotional pain and suffering. At Herrling Clark Law Firm, Ltd., our legal team can help you address the effects of a driver’s negligence, and we are dedicated to helping you recover the financial compensation you deserve for your injuries. To speak to an Appleton pedestrian accident lawyer, please call our office at 920-739-7366 and schedule a free consultation.
Sources:
https://www.cdc.gov/motorvehiclesafety/pedestrian_safety/index.html
https://www.nsc.org/home-safety/safety-topics/distracted-walking