ÖAMTC: 3,571 Pedestrian Accidents in 2023, Risk Increases in Darkness

Pedestrian accidents are common, with 3,571 reported in 2023 in Austria alone.

As per ÖAMTC, the Austrian Automobile, Motorcycle and Touring Club, 3,571 pedestrian accidents occurred in Austria in 2023. These accidents often result in serious injuries or even death, highlighting the importance of pedestrian safety.

The risk of pedestrian accidents increases significantly during the dark winter months.

Pedestrians are more difficult to see in the dark, making them more vulnerable to being hit by a car. In 2023, 60% of pedestrian accidents occurred between 5 pm and 8 am, when visibility is poorest.

Pedestrians can take several steps to reduce their risk of being involved in an accident.

These include wearing reflective clothing, using crosswalks, and being aware of their surroundings. Drivers should also be mindful of pedestrians and slow down in areas where pedestrians are likely to be present.

By following these tips, both pedestrians and drivers can help to reduce the number of pedestrian accidents and keep our roads safe.

Here are some additional tips for pedestrian safety:

• Make eye contact with drivers before crossing the street.
• Never assume that a driver sees you.
• Be aware of your surroundings and potential hazards.
• Use sidewalks whenever possible.
• Cross streets at designated crosswalks.
• Walk facing traffic.
• Wear bright or reflective clothing at night.
• Carry a flashlight at night.
• Stay alert and avoid distractions.

Pedestrian accidents are a serious problem, but they can be prevented. By following these tips, you can help to keep yourself and others safe.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), pedestrian accidents accounted for 13% of all traffic fatalities in the United States in 2020.

Pedestrians are particularly vulnerable to injury in a collision with a motor vehicle, as they have little protection from the impact.

The NHTSA recommends that pedestrians take the following steps to stay safe:

1. Cross the street at designated crosswalks.
2. Make eye contact with drivers before crossing the street.
3. Be aware of your surroundings and potential hazards.
4. Avoid distractions while walking.
5. Wear bright or reflective clothing at night.

Drivers can also help to prevent pedestrian accidents by:

1. Slowing down in areas where pedestrians are likely to be present.
2. Yielding to pedestrians at crosswalks.
3. Being aware of pedestrians and potential hazards.
4. Avoiding distractions while driving.

By following these tips, both pedestrians and drivers can help to prevent pedestrian accidents and keep our roads safe.