While most car accidents involve a vehicle impacting another vehicle or an obstruction, like a wall or tree, some accidents tragically involve a vehicle impacting with a person, which can lead to devastating injuries, and even death, for the pedestrian.
Last year, 5,977 pedestrians were killed in traffic accidents in the United States. That’s almost one death every 88 minutes! Fortunately, there are steps we can take, as pedestrians AND as drivers, to help limit this type of accident. Check out this educational infographic to learn how you can stay safer on or near roadways.
Pedestrian Accident Statistics
States with the Most Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrian accidents are most common in highly populated states with large urban centers. Last year, these were the top 10 states with the highest number of pedestrian fatalities:
- California – 858
- Florida – 654
- Texas – 607
- Georgia – 253
- New York – 242
- Arizona – 216
- North Carolina – 198
- New Jersey – 183
- Michigan – 156
- South Carolina – 154
Safety Measures for Pedestrians To Avoid Accidents
There are safety measures you can take to try to avoid pedestrian accidents, including:
- Walk on the sidewalk if possible; if no sidewalk is available, walk facing traffic
- Follow the rules of the road, obeying all traffic signs and signals
- Use crosswalks to cross the street
- Look both ways twice before crossing the street
- Stay alert – avoid cell phone use and wearing earbuds when near roads
- Stay away from alcohol and drug impairment when walking near roads
- Wear bright or reflective clothes, and use a flashlight at night
- Watch for cars entering or exiting driveways or backing up in parking lots
- Children younger than 10 should not cross the street without an adult
Safety Measures for Drivers To Avoid Pedestrian Accidents
Drivers play an important role in pedestrian safety as well! Check out these steps that drivers can take to help ensure pedestrian safety:
- Look out for pedestrians everywhere, all the time
- Use additional caution when driving in hard-to-see conditions, such as rain or snow
- Slow down and be prepared to stop when turning or entering a crosswalk
- Yield to pedestrians in crosswalks
- Never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Follow the speed limit, especially when there are people on or around the street
- Follow slower speed limits in school zones and in neighborhoods
- Be extra cautious when backing up, pedestrians can enter your path
Pedestrian Accident Attorney
If you or a loved one were involved in a pedestrian accident in Florida, do not hesitate to seek the help of an experienced personal injury lawyer. The pedestrian accident attorneys at Vasilaros Wagner are dedicated to helping injury victims hold negligent parties legally responsible and get the compensation that they need for damages associated with an accident. To make an informed decision about your pedestrian accident, it’s important to be fully aware of your rights and options. Contact us at (386) 777-7777 and we will help you immediately.
