Why it's especially dangerous to be a pedestrian on the road right now
Distracted driving and increased traffic are making it more perilous for pedestrians
As the holiday season approaches, more people are out shopping and walking, making it more important than ever to be aware of the dangers of pedestrian accidents. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), over 6,000 pedestrians were killed in traffic crashes in the United States in 2020. That's an average of one pedestrian death every 85 minutes.
There are a number of factors that are contributing to the increase in pedestrian deaths, including:
- Distracted driving: More and more drivers are using their cell phones and other electronic devices while driving, which can lead to them being less attentive to the road and to pedestrians.
- Increased traffic: The number of cars on the road has been increasing in recent years, which means that pedestrians are more likely to be hit by a car.
- Speeding: Drivers who are speeding are more likely to hit pedestrians, and the injuries sustained by pedestrians hit by speeding cars are more likely to be severe.
Pedestrians can take a number of steps to help reduce their risk of being involved in a traffic crash, including:
- Be aware of your surroundings: Pay attention to the traffic around you and be aware of any potential hazards.
- Make eye contact with drivers: This will help you to ensure that they see you and are aware of your presence.
- Cross the street at designated crosswalks: This will help you to avoid being hit by a car that is turning.
- Wear bright clothing: This will help you to be more visible to drivers.
By following these tips, pedestrians can help to reduce their risk of being involved in a traffic crash. However, it is important to remember that drivers also have a responsibility to be aware of pedestrians and to drive safely.
