2013 saw an increase in auto-pedestrian fatalities. Whether you’re behind the wheel or crossing the street, there are precautions one can take to help prevent collisions between people and motor vehicles.
Everyone is a Pedestrian
The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that every seven minutes a pedestrian is injured in an auto-pedestrian accident. Any person walking near or across a street should follow these tips to help prevent a collision.
- Visibility is crucial. Pedestrians should always be aware of their surroundings and always look both ways before crossing the street. If you are walking at night, make sure you carry a flashlight and wear bright, reflective clothing so motorists can see you.
- Sidewalks are much safer than walking in the road. However, if no sidewalk is available, pedestrians should walk on the shoulder of the road facing traffic.
- Crosswalks are the safest way to cross the street. When available, use crosswalks and intersections to cross the road. If there is no crosswalk or intersection nearby, carefully look both ways before crossing the street.
Eyes on the Road to Help Pedestrian Safety
There are so many things that can distract a driver during the operation of a motor vehicle. Following these steps will help reduce distracted driving and decrease pedestrian safety risks.
- Cell phones should be placed out of reach when you are driving a car. It is so tempting for a driver to take their eyes off the road to answer their cell phone or to respond to a text message, but this is extremely dangerous. To prevent the temptation, place your cell phone in your backseat or trunk.
- Slow down so you have plenty of time to react, especially in residential areas.
- Pay attention to your surroundings at all times. Taking your eyes off the road for even a second could have disastrous consequences.
Who’s Most at Risk For Injury in a Texas Auto Pedestrian Accident?
Generally speaking, the risk of injury or death in auto-pedestrian accidents increases with age. The elderly are particularly at risk because they are often unable to move quickly out of the way if needed. Children are at an even greater risk because they are sometimes too small to be seen from large vehicles and are less experienced with traffic rules.
If you or someone you love has been injured or killed in a Texas auto-pedestrian accident, do not continue to suffer due to a driver’s negligence. The Gutierrez Law Firm has helped hundreds of Texans recover damages after a variety of motor vehicle accidents. Contact us today so we can review your case.
Sources:
https://www.cdc.gov/features/pedestriansafety/
https://www.nhtsa.gov/Pedestrians
