Factors That Lead to Pedestrian Accidents
You shouldn’t be concerned about injury when you take walking outside, regardless of whether it’s for fitness or to travel. In the end, there are things like crosswalks and traffic signals to safeguard pedestrians.
For most people, walking is an integral aspect of everyday life. Walking daily for at least 160 minutes is recommended to ensure their health; many lack vehicle access. No wonder the street is filled with people heading into the fitness center, their homes, or work. What happens if the walk turns into something that is a nightmare? There are thousands of pedestrians injured by car accidents every year. The pedestrians’ and drivers’ lives could be changed in a single second.
What are the common factors that lead to pedestrian accidents?
There are many situations in which pedestrians could be at risk for various reasons, such as when trying to cross a busy road or highway. Although careless drivers are generally to blame, pedestrians who ignore where they’re going can also have a part to play. While several factors might skew the annual statistics, these are generally the main factors that cause pedestrian accidents.
1. Distracted Driving and Texting
Distracted driving is responsible for a large portion of pedestrian accidents. Distracted drivers tend not to be conscious of pedestrians crossing the street or entering and exiting vehicles.
There is no greater risk in the roadway than a driver or pedestrian distracted by their phone. If a pedestrian is texting simultaneously, they are more likely to miss the walking signal or cross against the flow of traffic. Also, motorists that are distracted from their smartphones won’t be able to see pedestrians walking across the road.
2. Speeding
The speed limit should be applied to protect drivers and pedestrians. For instance, the speed limit should be reduced in areas with pedestrian traffic, like residential and school zones. The motorcycle driver is accountable for actions that deviate from how a sensible person would perform in similar circumstances. This can include driving at a slower speed under adverse weather circumstances like rain, darkness, or fog.
3. Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol
Based on the CDC According to the CDC, over half of all pedestrian-related motor accident deaths involve alcohol. As a result, if you think alcohol played a role in the pedestrian’s accident, you must immediately contact a lawyer.
If you’ve consumed alcohol and are concerned about your ability to drive safely, you shouldn’t be driving. While 0.08 percent is the limit that’s legal for motorists aged 21 and over, it’s essential to recognize that everyone has a different tolerance for alcohol. For information, you can consult a reputable lawyer or firm for collection and compensation.
4. Jaywalking and Use of Dark Clothing
Always use an intersection when crossing the street. Unfortunately, crosswalks are only sometimes available. Most drivers pay attention to crosswalks, yet some need help to observe pedestrians jogging across the roadway. In addition, the dark clothing worn in the evening could make it difficult for drivers to see.
Most pedestrian-related accidents occur at intersections that are not used throughout the night. Certain situations (e.g., signs that are not correctly installed, construction broken crossing signals, etc.) might require pedestrians to cross in uncomfortable places. As a pedestrian, always be observant.
5. Poor Weather
Your vehicle’s performance may be diminished during severe precipitation or freezing. Many people suffer injuries yearly in crashes involving cars caused by bad weather (21% of all incidents).
The already high risk of driving is multiplied when bad weather (such as fog, snow, rain, etc.) causes environmental issues (such as icy roads or wet pavement). Everybody, from motorists and pedestrians, must be vigilant when the weather gets extreme.
You shouldn’t be concerned about injury when you take walking outside, regardless of whether it’s for fitness or to travel. In the end, there are things like crosswalks and traffic signals to safeguard pedestrians. For most people, walking is an integral aspect of everyday life. Walking daily for at least 160 minutes is recommended to…
