California has the highest rate of pedestrian accidents
With car, truck, motorcycle, and bicycle accidents every year, it may seem as though no mode of transportation is safe. Unfortunately, just like reckless or careless driving can lead to a collision with another vehicle, it can lead to an accident involving a pedestrian.
Pedestrian accident statistics
According to the Los Angeles Times, California has held the record for pedestrian accidents in the nation two years in a row. In 2000, about 11% of all deaths from motor vehicle accidents were pedestrians. That number climbed to 14% in 2014.
The LA Times referenced a study conducted by the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA), in which the following facts were presented for 2014:
- 70% of all pedestrian fatalities occurred between 6 p.m. and 6 a.m.
- 70% of all pedestrian victims were male
- 23% of all motor vehicle fatalities in California were pedestrians
- More than a third of adults who died in pedestrian accidents had blood-alcohol levels over the legal limit
- More than 25% of all deaths occurred when the speed limit was 35-40 mph
- Pedestrians are three times more likely to die when hit by vehicles moving at 40 mph than they are by vehicles moving at 25 mph
- 700 pedestrians in California died in motor vehicle incidents
Lawmakers taking note of pedestrian accidents
The Governors Highway Safety Association and the U.S. federal government have been working hard to decrease pedestrian fatalities, but the percentage of pedestrian fatalities in motor vehicle accidents has been steadily climbing.
The GHSA speculates that pedestrian fatalities rose during 2010-2012 due to warmer weather and a weaker economy, resulting in more people walking than in periods with a strong economy and cooler weather patterns.
One thing is clear: Choosing to walk doesn’t necessarily mean you’re immune to the devastation that can come with motor vehicle accidents. When car drivers and/or pedestrians practice reckless behavior, the results can be just as brutal as in a two-car collision.
Pedestrian Safety and Precautions
Many vehicle accidents can be prevented when the driver is alert, focused, and adhering to traffic laws. The same can be said for pedestrians: adhering to crosswalks and being aware of your surrounding can help minimize the chance of an accident.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration also cautions pedestrians to:
- Exercise the same critical thinking skills they would on a bike or in a car
- Stop, look left-right-left for traffic, be safe, and be seen
- Participate in a pedestrian safety program if there’s one available in your state
You can’t control what other people do when they’re operating a vehicle or riding a bike, but by following the safety precautions above, you can do your part to minimize your chances of being involved in a collision.
Let our La Habra, CA lawyers help
Pedestrian accidents, just like vehicle accidents, can lead to injuries and even death. If you’ve been in an accident and you’re wondering what to do next, call the team at Holland & Holland. Our team of lawyers can walk you through your options, provide education, and help you file your case. Contact us today for a consultation.
