Pedestrian fatalities are on the rise, which makes many people feel unsafe walking in their own neighborhood. Keep reading to learn more about the increase in fatal pedestrian accidents. If you have been involved in a pedestrian accident, or have lost a loved one in this type of accident, contact The Law Offices of Larry H. Parker at 800-333-0000 to find out what your options are.
There Are More People on the Road
While this might not have been true in the last twelve months, the overall increase in pedestrian accidents in the last decade has been impacted by the increase in people on the road. This has been due to lower gas prices, a better economy, and higher tourism within the state of California. As a person would expect, the more people there are on the roads, the higher the chance of a pedestrian accident.
More Drivers and Pedestrians Are Distracted
It is much more common today for a pedestrian or driver to be using their cell phone than it was a decade ago. This causes serious distractions that can lead to deadly accidents. Even if a person is not actively looking at their phone, the vibrations and notifications can cause cognitive distractions that make it dangerous to drive or walk.
Pedestrians Are Often Trying to Reach a Certain Number of Steps Per Day
With the increase in popularity of activity trackers, more and more people are going out with the specific purpose of getting enough steps in. This might be great for their health, but it can also mean they are distracted and paying attention only to how many steps they are getting – not to the conditions of the roads or the rules of the road.
People Are Looking for Ways to Be Eco-Friendlier on Their Commute
Many people are looking for ways to be as eco-friendly as possible on their commute, which means some are walking. Note as well that pedestrian accidents are not limited to collisions between people and vehicles. They can also involve pedestrians and bikes, which are more common as more people have started commuting to work via bike.
How to Stay Safer While Walking
Does this mean no one should feel comfortable or safe walking down their own street? No, but it does mean that everyone should take care to walk as safely as they can. This means staying off your phone, keeping your headphones off, and being aware of what is going on around you.
In the event you are injured in a pedestrian accident or a loved one loses their life in one, you can contact The Law Offices of Larry H. Parker at 800-333-0000 to request a free legal consultation.
