Why are pedestrian fatalities increasing?
There are several possible reasons why there has been an increase in the number of pedestrian accident deaths. The country’s economic recovery is one of them. As unemployment decreases and disposable spending is on the rise, people drive more. More cars on the road means greater opportunities for cars and pedestrians to collide.
As cities and towns become more pedestrian friendly, there are also more people walking alongside traffic than previously. Again, the more interactions between people and vehicles, the more likelihood that accidents will occur. Since pedestrians are obviously unprotected by the steel confines of a vehicle, they will bear the brunt of any impact in an accident.
The widespread use of portable electronic devices is also contributing to the rise in pedestrian fatalities. Drivers distracted by text messaging, email, social media, apps or web surfing can speed through crosswalks, run red lights or stop signs, turn without yielding to pedestrians or swerve onto sidewalks. Pedestrians whose focus is on their cellphones or tablets can walk out into traffic, ignore traffic control signs and signals, or walk against the light. They also take longer to cross the street, something that can itself result in injury.
Pedestrian accidents can result in serious injuries and often end in fatalities. If you or someone you love has been hurt in a pedestrian accident because of the negligence of a driver, municipality or other entity, you have legal rights. Contact a local personal injury attorney to learn more.