The number of pedestrians being involved in traffic crashes is increasing as the years go by. Reports from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) show that in 2020, 6,516 pedestrians died in accidents nationwide.
This guide discusses three situations that put pedestrians at high risk:
1. Negligent actions
Pedestrians are in danger when sharing the road with a negligent driver. These include drunk, drowsy, distracted and aggressive drivers. They may not notice a pedestrian or lack adequate time to act, such as when speeding, and as a result, hit them. Drivers should observe traffic laws to protect pedestrians.
2. Poor visibility
Most pedestrian accidents happen at night or in bad weather conditions. Drivers experience reduced visibility and distractions from other vehicles’ headlights in these situations. Thus, they need to be extra careful by slowing down, having a clean windshield and using lights appropriately, among other safety measures. Not doing this may lead to an accident involving a pedestrian.
3. Unmarked crosswalks
Drivers should yield to pedestrians in crosswalks. Most intersections have designated crosswalks that are marked. However, some don’t, but pedestrians can lawfully cross the road in these areas. A negligent driver who fails to yield to pedestrians may cause an accident in a marked or unmarked crosswalk.
How can pedestrians be safe?
Pedestrians can observe certain measures to avoid these accidents. Examples include walking on sidewalks or facing traffic if they are unavailable, using marked crosswalks, looking in all directions before crossing, crossing at a well-lit area in an unmarked crosswalk and avoiding alcohol and other drugs when walking.
A significant percentage of pedestrian accidents occur due to a driver’s negligent action. If you are injured in an accident when walking, learn more about your rights to determine the right steps to take.