Founding Attorney
Did you know that, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, a pedestrian was killed every 81 minutes in 2020? This is a staggering statistic which highlights the real importance of prioritizing pedestrian safety. We are all in this together. Pedestrian and motorists alike can do their part to keep themselves and others safe out there on sidewalks, crosswalks, and roadways.
Keeping Pedestrians Safe
Pedestrians are at a real risk of serious and even fatal injuries if involved in an accident. After all, a pedestrian lacks any protection afforded to someone in a vehicle. In a vehicle versus pedestrian situation, the pedestrian is not likely to fare well. Regardless, pedestrians have rights and we all should be mindful of their safety and well-being.
In discussing how we can keep pedestrians safe, a good place to start is with pedestrians themselves. Pedestrians, there are steps you yourselves can take to help ensure your safety while out and about. You can limit your outings to areas you know that are well-lit and have well-maintained sidewalks. You can avoid nighttime outings where visibility is decreased and there is more likely to be drivers who have been drinking or are under the influence of drugs. You can make sure you wear bright, visible clothing, especially if you go out when it is dark or there is rainy or otherwise inclement weather.
Pedestrians, you can also avoid walking while distracted. Don’t look down at your phone, especially for extended period of time. If you are going to wear headphones to do something like listen to music, be sure your music isn’t too loud and your headphones allow you to still hear things that are going on around you. Also, when crossing a street, be sure to always use a crosswalk when available. Never assume a driver sees you and pay particular attention to drivers making left turns as they may not be looking past oncoming traffic to see if there is a pedestrian walking through their upcoming path.
Drivers, there are things you can do as well to keep pedestrians safe. A big one is avoiding driving while distracted. Put away your phone. Do not fiddle with your music or GPS. Pay attention to your surroundings. Additionally, avoid reckless driving behaviors such as disregarding traffic signals and speed limits. Excessive lane changes and making turns without checking for pedestrians in your path should also be avoided. As always, avoid driving while intoxicated. These are all things that put drivers, pedestrians, and other vehicle occupants at risk.
Personal Injury Attorney
Pedestrian accidents can have tragic consequences. If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident, do not delay in reaching out to Attorney Michael LoGiudice for assistance. He will help you pursue full and fair monetary compensation for the harm you have suffered. Contact us today.