Why Are Pedestrian Accidents Increasing?

It’s a dubious distinction. Alabama ranks eighth in the number of pedestrian deaths in the U.S., according to a 2018 report by the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA).

Nationally, the group finds there were more than 6,000 pedestrians killed on our roads in 2018, the latest year for which there is data. This is the highest level in 20 years. More than two-thirds of those killed were male.

Blame distractions, both behind the wheel and on foot, and the increasing use of smartphones.   

In Alabama, pedestrian deaths are up 60 percent over the last 12 years. There were 119 pedestrian fatalities reported in Alabama in 2017, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

What Is Causing the Increase?

Using a cellphone while you walk, particularly texting, is associated with a higher risk of pedestrian mishaps, according to researchers from the University of Calgary.

In a published study in the journal, Injury Prevention, researchers compared texting to talking on the phone or listening to music. Among the three, texting was associated with the highest rates of accidents.  

Other factors include more cars on the road, more pedestrians, more people driving larger SUVs, and possibly even the use of marijuana.  

Unfortunately, federal statistics find the elderly, age 65 or older, and young children are disproportionately the victims of pedestrian collisions.

Some of the injuries that commonly result from a pedestrian accident include head and neck injuries, traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, broken bones, amputation, internal injuries, and wrongful death.

Causes of pedestrian injury and death on our roads are:

• Driving/ Walking Under the Influence – Whether illegal drugs, prescription medication, or alcohol, it is never a good idea to walk or drive while under the influence. Not only will an arrest land you in jail and potentially cost thousands of dollars (and points on your license), but according to NHTSA, in 2016, about one-third of fatal pedestrian collisions with cars involved pedestrians with an elevated blood alcohol level.
• Distracted Driving/Walking – Have you ever seen someone cross the street who never looks up from their smartphone? This is distracted walking and it is more common than you think. What about someone with headphones on? Do you think they can hear an approaching car or a warning horn? Likely not.
• Failing to Follow the Rules of the Road – A pedestrian who crosses in front of an aggressive driver and outside of a marked crossing area is violating the rules of the road. Imagine trying to stop when someone steps out into traffic from behind a school bus or from between cars. It is incumbent on all of us to follow safety rules, even those on foot.

Avoid Pedestrian Accidents

Drivers need to watch for pedestrians at all times including those in the crosswalk, who have the right-of-way, and those who cross illegally. Outside of a designated walkway where there is no sidewalk, the pedestrian should walk on the left-hand side of the road facing traffic. In that case, the pedestrian must yield the right-of-way to the vehicle.

At the same time, pedestrians need to be mindful of traffic signals, rules of the road, and safety. Do not walk while intoxicated. Put the phone down at cross walks. Don’t assume the driver sees you.

When a car impacts a person, it is no mystery who will survive.

Other studies have found over the last 20 years, an increasing number of ER visits include injuries to the neck, face, head, eyes, and nose, particularly among people between the ages of 13 and 29.

Your Alabama Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

If you, or a loved one, have been involved in a collision with a motor vehicle, Chip Nix will offer you a complimentary consultation to determine if you will be able to recover any damages lost due to your accident.

You may be suffering, not only physically, but significant losses, including wages, an inability to work while you undergo rehabilitation, medical expenses, and pain and suffering.

In Alabama, the party who is at-fault is responsible for paying for your losses. Chip Nix can offer you expert information on your rights to recovery and guide your next step during this difficult time. Please contact our office so we can arrange a meeting at 334-279-7770.