Despite the best efforts of numerous agencies and organizations in states such as California, pedestrian accidents are up nationwide. Local cities up and down the United States are focused on making streets safer for pedestrians. However, over the past ten years the number of pedestrians dying in accidents has risen sharply. In fact, more pedestrians are now dying in traffic accidents than any other demographic.
That means pedestrians run a higher risk of being killed simply by walking the streets and highways of the nation. The numbers are startling; with pedestrian deaths increasing by 27 percent from 2007 to 2016. These findings were the focus of a report released by the Governors Highway Safety Association’s report, titled “Spotlight on Highway Safety: Pedestrian Traffic Fatalities by State.”
Pedestrian Accidents
There are a number of reasons pedestrian accidents are on the increase. Distracted walking and driving due to societal dependency on the use of mobile devices, such as cell phones, is a major concern. Early research has also shown a correlation between the legalization of marijuana and pedestrian accidents.
It is also important to consider there are more people driving to school and work, which coincides with a greater number of vehicles on the nation’s roads. Better education about road safety, including reducing incidents of distracted walking or driving, may help to reduce the number of pedestrian accidents across the United States.
In 2016 Los Angeles County was top in deaths resulting from pedestrian accidents. Other areas including Orange County and San Diego County accounted for 63 and 71 deaths respectively. All three counties were ranked in the top ten for pedestrian accidents which resulted in deaths.
Advocating for Change
Numerous groups around the country are advocating for change, including Los Angeles Walks. The group’s aim is to campaign for structural changes which would force cars to slow down in the city. Additionally, the group suggests speeders should receive traffic tickets as part of an automated process. A large number of pedestrian accidents occur in areas which do not have sufficient sidewalk space or islands, which help pedestrians to cross roads safely.
Pedestrian accidents are often behavior driven, which means both motorists and pedestrians need to consider how to prevent accidents from occurring on our roads. Distracted driving and walking, crossing roads outside of intersections, and intoxication are some of the major contributors of pedestrians in their own accidents.
Experienced Legal Representation
If you have been involved in an accident as a pedestrian, Maison Law can provide you with excellence in representation. You can pursue compensation for your injuries and losses if another party was at fault. It helps to have a lawyer on your side that is prepared to go to court and fight for fair compensation on your behalf.
Contact Maison Law today to further discuss the details of your case as part of a professional consultation. We can provide transportation if you have suffered injuries which make it difficult for you to get around.
