Pedestrian Accidents and Crosswalks
Most people think of single- or multi-vehicle crashes when they think of car accidents. Yet auto collisions take many different forms. This includes collisions with bicyclists as well as harm to pedestrians. In fact, pedestrian accidents can be tragic, resulting in catastrophic harm and even death. San Diego, CA attorney Chris Olsen is here to help people who have been affected by deadly auto crashes.
The team at Olsen Law Offices would like to go over some telling facts about pedestrian accidents. We’ll then look at some common causes of these kinds of collisions.
Pedestrian Accident Statistics
According to numbers from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 5,378 pedestrians were fatally struck by motor vehicles in 2015. This averages out to one pedestrian death every 1.6 hours.
In addition to these sobering fatality figures, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that nearly 129,000 pedestrians were treated for injuries in emergency rooms during 2015. The CDC estimates that pedestrians are 1.5 times more likely to be killed in a motor vehicle accident than a passenger inside of a motor vehicle.
Drunk Drivers and Pedestrian Accidents
According to NHTSA numbers, alcohol impairment played a role in 48 percent of all fatal pedestrian injuries in 2015. While 34 percent o these incidents involved pedestrians with a BAC over the legal limit, 15 percent also involved drunk/intoxicated motorists of a BAC above the legal limit.
Whether walking or driving, always travel while sober. Use common sense, and drink within reason rather to excess. This simple advice could save a life.
Driver Distraction and Pedestrian Accidents
When a driver isn’t paying attention to the road, the risks of auto accidents and pedestrian accidents increase. Whether it’s the use of cellphones, rubbernecking, grooming behind the wheel, or some other form of distraction, it is dangerous behavior that must be avoided for the good of everyone on the road.
Running Red Lights and Beating Yellow Lights
At intersections, many people speed up to beat yellow lights. They may even run a red light due to recklessness or negligence on their part. Both of these actions can lead to catastrophic injuries. This is why drivers need to exercise great caution when they see a yellow light. Slow down if you can do so safely.
Hazards to Pedestrians When Vehicles Turn
When a vehicle is turning left or right, the risks of striking a pedestrian are high. This is particularly true of right turns. A driver may not be paying attention to pedestrians who have the right of way, resulting in serious harm.
Malfunctioning Traffic Signals
Even when drivers are behind the wheel safely, there are numerous potential causes of accidents. Sometimes the traffic signals at an intersection are not working properly. When this happens, a pedestrian may be at greater risk of injury. The city may be accountable for these kinds of incidents.
Poorly Marked Crosswalks
Crosswalks should be properly marked so drivers know where people are designated to walk and pedestrians can identify safe parts of the road to cross the street. The effects of weather and road repair can result in crosswalks being unmarked, which is a danger to all people on the road.
Poor Lighting Around Crosswalks
Many pedestrian accidents happen at night given issues with visibility. If the area around a crosswalk is not properly lit, that increases the chances of a driver colliding with someone who is legally crossing the street.
Learn More About Your Legal Options
For more information about your legal rights and options following a catastrophic accident, be sure to contact an experienced personal injury attorney. The team at Olsen Law Offices is here to help. You can reach our practice by phone at (619) 550-9352.
