Most people feel safe when they walk down the street or cross at a designated crosswalk. Unfortunately, the number of pedestrian accidents is on the rise in Texas and in other parts of the country. The Governor’s Highway Safety Association (GHSA) reviews accident data across the nation. Preliminary data indicates that Texas ranks third in the United States for pedestrian traffic fatalities last year.
According to the numbers, 298 pedestrians were killed in traffic accidents here in the first six months of 2018. When an accident occurs between a pedestrian and a motor vehicle, injuries are likely to be serious or life-threatening. If you were hurt in a pedestrian accident, you may need help from a San Antonio personal injury attorney.
Why are Pedestrian Accidents on the Rise?
Although our vehicles are equipped with advanced technology that improves overall safety and crash survivability, the number of pedestrian accidents continues to increase. In 2018, it is estimated that more than 6,200 pedestrians were killed in motor vehicle accidents in the United States. This is an increase of about 4% over the previous year. Texas experienced an increase of 12%. There were thousands more people in the state who were injured in traffic accidents last year.
Some of the common factors that cause or contribute to pedestrian accidents include speeding, distracted driving, and driving while impaired. The use of cell phones is likely a factor that increases distraction while driving. Distracted driving is defined as anything that takes your eyes off the road, your hands off the wheel, or your focus off of driving. Texting while behind the wheel is extremely dangerous because it includes all three types of distractions. The American Automobile Association (AAA) estimates that about 25 to 50% of accidents are due at least in part to distracted driving.
Pedestrian Safety Tips
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) offers some common sense tips to keep pedestrians safe. Pedestrians should walk on the sidewalk and cross the street at a designated crosswalk. Pay attention to traffic and do not act in an unpredictable manner. If you must walk in an area without sidewalks, walk on the shoulder of the road and walk in the opposite direction of traffic. Do not assume that a driver sees you. When you walk at night, wear light-colored or reflective clothing.
Drivers should also be aware of pedestrians on and near the roadway. Today’s vehicles are often slightly higher, so it may make viewing pedestrians more difficult. Watch for pedestrians crossing the street, especially when making a turn. Be aware of pedestrians who may cross the street in areas where there are few traffic lights or crosswalks. Do not speed in areas where there is a lot of pedestrian traffic or in school zones. Be particularly careful when driving in areas that are not well lit.
If you or a loved one were hurt in a car wreck or pedestrian accident, you may be owed money for your injuries, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.
Contact Martinez & Associates to learn how we may be able to help you fight for the money you deserve for your injuries.