Everyone is a pedestrian at some point in their lives, from walking across the parking lot to crossing the street at a signal light. Because of this, it is critical to be reminded about pedestrian dangers; no parking lot or crosswalk is free of negligent motorists.
Unfortunately, pedestrians are struck in crosswalks far too often, even when they have the signal on their side. While some pedestrians jaywalk or cross against the light, most pedestrian accidents in Georgia and nationwide occur on crosswalks. The reason?
- Drivers fail to yield to pedestrians
- Drivers are not looking out for pedestrians
- Drivers are distracted at the wheel
- Drivers are speeding or driving aggressively
- Drivers run red lights or stop signs
A recent study conducted by researchers from NYU Langone Medical Center looked at pedestrian accidents in New York and found that pedestrians are most often hit in a crosswalk, walking with the light. Of those injured, the study found the following results:
- 44% of pedestrians used a crosswalk, with the signal
- 23% crossed midblock
- 9% crossed against the signal
While pedestrians can get hit by vehicles just about anywhere, this data shows that pedestrians need to be alert when they are on the sidewalk, about to enter a crosswalk, while they are crossing in a crosswalk, and anywhere they are near traffic.
Safety Reminders for Pedestrians
In order to avoid a pedestrian accident in Peachtree City, pedestrians need to be watching their surroundings. This means that pedestrians should not be texting while walking, not looking at their emails, and not doing anything else that would cause them to take their eyes off of the traffic close to them. Additionally, pedestrians should not listen to music while walking next to vehicles. When pedestrians are able to see and hear what is going on around them, they will be able to reduce their chances of being a victim of a pedestrian accident in Georgia.
If you suffered injuries in a pedestrian accident due to a careless driver, please call Shane Smith Law to find out if you have a claim for damages. You may be entitled to more compensation than what the insurance company is offering. To find out more and to learn about your rights, call (980) 246-2656 for a free consultation with a Peachtree City accident attorney today.