There are a variety of reasons why pedestrians can be injured or killed in accidents, but some of the most common causes are:
· Not using crosswalks correctly
· Running across a street without looking
· Being distracted by something else while crossing the street
Causes of Pedestrian Accidents
There are many reasons why pedestrians can be struck by vehicles. In some cases, the pedestrian may have failed to heed warning signals or crosswalks, while in other cases they may have been walking in the wrong place at the wrong time. Start protecting your clients form Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents and yourself with straccilaw. Here are some of the most common causes of pedestrian accidents:
- Distracted Walking – One of the most common causes of pedestrian accidents is distracted walking. This occurs when a pedestrian is engaged in an activity that takes their attention away from their surroundings, such as talking on a phone or texting.
- Crossing at Unsafe Intersections – Another common cause of pedestrian accidents is crossing at an unsafe intersection. This occurs when a pedestrian chooses to cross an intersection where there is no crosswalk or minimum crossing distance has been violated.
- Failing To Yield To Traffic – Another common cause of pedestrian accidents is failing to yield to traffic. This occurs when a pedestrian crosses the street without stopping for traffic, or when they cross in the wrong direction.
- Wearing Inappropriate Footwear – One of the most common causes of pedestrian accidents is wearing inappropriate footwear. This includes shoes that are not made for walking, as well as shoes that do not provide adequate protection against injuries.
The Types of Pedestrian Accidents
There are a variety of factors that can lead to pedestrian accidents, but the most common are: inattention, failure to yield, and crossing at an intersection when it is not safe. Here are three other common causes of pedestrian accidents:
- Running into a pedestrian: This is the most common cause of death for pedestrians and accounts for about two-thirds of all pedestrian fatalities. Runners who hit pedestrians often do not see them until it is too late.
- Failing to yield to pedestrians: When drivers don’t yield to pedestrians in crosswalks, they put themselves and others at risk. Many states have laws requiring drivers to give pedestrians the right of way at intersections, even when there’s no traffic signal.
- Crossing against the light: A pedestrian has the right of way when crossing a street against the light. But if you’re not sure whether it’s safe to cross, wait for the light to change before doing so.
Solutions to Prevent Pedestrian Accidents
There are many causes of pedestrian accidents, but most can be prevented with common sense precautions. Here are some of the main causes:
- Distracted driving: Drivers who are distracted by phone use, eating or other activities behind the wheel are more likely to cause accidents involving pedestrians. Make sure your phone is safely tucked away in a mount or holder while you’re driving.
- Poorly lit streets: Poorly lit streets can make it difficult for pedestrians to see in front of them, which can lead to dangerous crossings. Install streetlights where needed and make sure they are properly illuminated at night.
- Unsafe sidewalks: If sidewalks are poorly maintained or not marked properly, pedestrians may be less safe walking on them. Repair or replace sidewalks as needed and make sure they meet local safety standards.
- Alcohol and drugs: When impaired, drivers and pedestrians are more likely to make mistakes that could lead to an accident. If you’re planning on drinking alcohol or using drugs before getting behind the wheel.