Whenever you walk near moving vehicles, you need to have a clear understanding of the risks around you. For example, a car could hit you while someone is backing up in a parking lot, pulling out of a driveway or veering off of the road due to reckless driving. If you become involved in a traffic accident as a pedestrian, the chances of you sustaining a serious injury or losing your life become particularly high.
Sadly, data reveals that many pedestrians continue to face these devastating hardships every year.
Statistics on accidents that involve pedestrians
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that during 2020, pedestrian accident injuries accounted for 104,000 visits to emergency departments. Furthermore, pedestrian accidents claimed over 7,000 lives in 2020.
Many fatal pedestrian accidents during 2019 involved alcohol (46%), and a majority took place away from intersections, during the night and on roads in urban places. When drivers speed, they increase not only the chances of a pedestrian accident, but the severity of the pedestrian’s injuries should a collision occur.
Preventing pedestrian accidents
Pedestrians and drivers can take steps to avoid these accidents. Pedestrians can wear reflective vests and carry a flashlight at night, and drivers should always watch out for those walking alongside the road or trying to cross the street. Pedestrians should also try to use designated crosswalks and stay on sidewalks whenever they can.
Sadly, negligent drivers (such as drunk and distracted drivers) keep causing pedestrian accidents, leaving many victims with debilitating injuries.