It would help if you weren’t concerned about the injury while you take the outdoors, whether for exercise or transport. For all we know, there are things like crosswalks and traffic lights to help protect pedestrians.
For most people, walking is an integral part of life. It is even advised to walk for at least 160 minutes weekly to ensure their health, and many aren’t able to access a car. No wonder the street is full of people heading for a workout, to their homes, or to work. What if that walk becomes something that is a nightmare? There are thousands of pedestrians injured by car accidents every year. The pedestrian’s and driver’s lives can be changed for a moment.
What are the prevalent causes of pedestrian accidents?
There are many scenarios where pedestrians may be at risk and risk, for instance, when crossing a busy roadway or highway. While reckless drivers are usually to blame, pedestrians who don’t watch their surroundings can play a role. While many factors could alter annual data, the following are generally the main factors that cause pedestrian accidents.
1. Distracted Driving and Texting
Distracted driving is responsible for a significant portion of pedestrian crashes. Distracted drivers tend not to be conscious of pedestrians crossing the road or exiting vehicles.
There is no greater danger in the roadway than a pedestrian or driver distracted by texting. The danger of a driver failing to pay attention or crossing the wrong signal increases when the person is texting. In the same way, drivers who are distracted by phones won’t be able to see pedestrians walking across the street, which causes common bike accidents.
2. Speeding
Drivers and pedestrians alike need to be protected by posted speed restrictions. For instance, the speed limit must be reduced in areas with pedestrians, such as residential and school zones. Drivers are responsible for decisions that go against the way a sensible person would perform in similar circumstances. This can include driving slower when bad weather, such as rain, darkness, or fog.
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3. Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol
According to the CDC, nearly half of all motor accidents involving pedestrian deaths involve alcohol. In light of this, If you believe that alcohol contributed to your pedestrian’s crash, you should promptly contact a truck accident attorney.
If you’ve had a few drinks and are worried about your capacity to drive safely, you shouldn’t drive. While 0.08% is the legal limit for motorists 21 years old and above, it’s essential to remember that every person has a different tolerance to alcohol.
4. Jaywalking and Use of Dark Clothing
You should always utilize a crosswalk when crossing the road. However, crossings are only sometimes readily available. Chances are, most drivers are aware of crosswalks, yet some fail to see pedestrians jaywalking crossing the road. Also, being dressed in dark attire at night can make it difficult to spot.
Most pedestrian-related injuries occur at non-intersections throughout the night. Certain circumstances (e.g., road construction, defective signage or damaged signals for crossing, etc.) may require pedestrians to cross in uncomfortable places. Be alert.
5. Poor Weather
The effectiveness of a vehicle is reduced on days with extreme precipitation or freezing. Many people get injured yearly in car accidents caused by bad weather (21% of all incidents).
The already high risks of driving can be increased when bad weather (such as snow, fog, wind, rain, sleet, etc.) causes environmental issues (such as slippery roads and slippery pavements). Everyone, from motorists to pedestrians, needs to be aware when the weather turns dangerous.
