It is not unusual for people in Southern California to walk somewhere rather than driving. It may be the case that they want some exercise, or their destination may not be far enough away to warrant driving there. However, being a pedestrian carries certain risks, as many drivers fail to pay sufficient attention to pedestrians in their vicinity, leading to auto-pedestrian accidents.
The scope of the problem
Auto-pedestrian accidents are a serious problem in the U.S. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, in 2017, nearly 6,000 pedestrians lost their lives in auto-pedestrian accidents. This amounted to approximately one fatality every 88 minutes. In addition, approximately 137,000 pedestrians were injured in auto-pedestrian accidents in 2017.
Staying safe if you are a pedestrian
The following are some measures pedestrians can take to reduce the risk of being struck by a car:
- Wear reflective clothing if walking at night
- Cross streets at designated crosswalks when possible
- Stay on sidewalks or paths rather than walking on the street
- Avoid distractions or walking while intoxicated
If pedestrians must walk on the street, it is critical to stay on the shoulder of the road and face oncoming traffic to be as visible as possible to approaching vehicles.
Learn more about auto-pedestrian accidents
Sadly, even the most careful pedestrian is at risk of being struck by a car. Auto-pedestrian accidents can cause serious injuries or even fatalities. Pedestrians involved in an auto-pedestrian accident may want to explore their options, including filing a legal claim if appropriate. Our firm’s webpage on pedestrian accidents may be a good starting point for those who want more information on this topic.