“On average, a pedestrian was killed every 2 hours and injured every 8 minutes in traffic crashes in 2013,” according to the latest study from NHTSA [4]. From this statistic we can see that pedestrian accidents involving vehicles commonly happens, costing money, health, and lives. As a society that drives an average of 13,476 miles per year [1], there are unfortunately many opportunities to be involved in one of these collisions.
Why do these accidents normally occur?
Visualexpert.com states, “A driver can only avoid an accident if he sees the pedestrian relatively far ahead. The driver must detect the pedestrian, recognize the impending collision, and then react by pressing the brakes” [2]. Low visibility is a reason that these accidents occur. In fact, one of the most common times to hit a pedestrian is between 6pm-9pm [3] when visibility is poor.
- 72% of pedestrian fatalities occurred at night [3]. Due to low visibility, it is important to use proper head lighting to see ahead and have time to react.
- 73% of pedestrian fatalities occurred in urban areas [3]. Not surprisingly, the higher the population around you the more pedestrians there are. It is important to be extra cautious in your surroundings and follow traffic laws.
- 69% of pedestrian fatalities occurred in non-intersections [3]. Sometimes, pedestrians won’t adhere to crosswalks or are in an area where they are not commonly walking. This makes it increasingly difficult on the driver, but being aware of what is around you and staying present no matter where you are driving are important.
What can I do?
- Using your headlights properly can not only protect yourself, but those who you share the road with. It is now suggested to have your low beam headlights on 24/7 to help your visibility. Some vehicles are even made to automatically have the headlights on when the vehicle is turned on.
- Unless you have extremely poor visibility, don’t use fog lights.
- Be aware of your surroundings.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a pedestrian and vehicle accident call your Tampa Bay injury lawyer, Bryan Caulfield. He offers proven trial experience and is highly respected among Tampa Bay area personal injury lawyers. He is available 24/7 and is pleased to offer consultations in Bradenton, Lakeland, Sarasota and Seminole. To better serve clients locally and statewide, his law firm has offices in Tampa, Clearwater, St. Petersburg, Spring Hill, New Port Richey and Rocky Point. For a free and immediate consultation with Tampa Bay area personal injury lawyer Bryan Caulfield, call him at 1-800-535-2529 or contact Bryan online. You only pay a fee or costs once Bryan has won your case.
[1] Federal HIghway Administration. “Average Annual Miles per Driver by Age Group.” Average Annual Miles per Driver by Age Group. N.p., n.d. Web. 27 May 2015.
[2]Green, Marc, Phd. “Visual Expert Human Factors: Seeing Pedestrians At Night.” Visual Expert Human Factors: Seeing Pedestrians At Night. N.p., 2008. Web. 27 May 2015.
[3]National Center for Statistics and Analysis. (2015, February). Pedestrians: 2013 data. (Traffic Safety Facts. Report No. DOT HS 812 124). Washington, DC: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
[4] NHSTA. “Pedestrians.” Pedestrians. N.p., n.d. Web. 27 May 2015.