The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported that in the year 2015, pedestrian accidents that resulted in fatalities were on the rise. With the global increase of both vehicle and on-foot commuters in recent years, it comes as no surprise that these statistics have spiked since then. Under this 2015 study done by the NHTSA, research showed there were over 5, 000 pedestrian fatalities in the United States alone, emphasizing the need to inform, encourage, and empower pedestrians to take proactive steps toward their safety now, more than ever before.
Who is Most at Risk?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have identified certain pedestrians who are more at risk than others for personal injury while out and about. For example, adults who are 65 years old or older and children under 15 years of age are especially at risk. Learn how to protect yourself as a pedestrian, and discover how an experienced personal injury lawyer can assist with your pedestrian accident claim, should you or a loved one suffer an injury or fatality because of another road user’s negligence.
Protecting Yourself as a Pedestrian
Here are some practical ways recommended by the CDC to help increase your chances of avoiding injury as a pedestrian:
Make yourself visible – When traveling during the early morning, dusk, or late-night hours, be sure to wear reflective clothing and consider carrying a flashlight and any other gear that is designed to aid you in being visible to drivers, such as a flag and helmets made of reflective materials.
Remain vigilant – Motorists who strike pedestrians are often distracted, whether they are preoccupied with a cell phone, GPS device, or radio dial. The danger is further increased when drivers are speeding or swerving, due to operating their vehicles under the influence of alcohol and other drugs. Whatever the cause for their distraction, it is imperative that you are vigilant when they are not. Pay attention to crosswalks, avoid texting or talking on your phone when approaching intersections, and in general, remain vigilant of erratic and aggressive driving behaviors around you.
Face traffic when no sidewalk or path is available – Another simple yet effective way you can protect yourself as a pedestrian on the roadway is to always walk in the direction of traffic when no sidewalk or pathway is available to you. Doing so allows you to see what is coming toward you as you commute and also allows drivers to see you coming head on.
If you have had the unnerving experience of being involved in a pedestrian collision, it is imperative to speak with a Green Bay, WI personal injury attorney right away to protect your rights and your best interests in a court of law. Call [[title]] at 920-739-7366, the moment you are injured, and ask for your personal consultation.
Sources:
https://www.nhtsa.gov/road-safety/pedestrian-safety
https://www.cdc.gov/motorvehiclesafety/pedestrian_safety/index.html