Pedestrian Accidents
We often think of traveling by car, truck, bicycle, airplane or train, but being a pedestrian is considered a method of travel. A pedestrian is defined by the NHTSA as anyone who is walking, jogging, running, walking, hiking lying or sitting near a road.
Unfortunately, pedestrians are 1.5 times more likely to be killed every trip than those in a vehicle. A pedestrian is killed every two hours in the United States with an injury occurring every seven minutes.
In 2012, 4,743 pedestrians were killed in traffic accidents with 76,000 injured. Pedestrian deaths account for 14 percent of all traffic fatalities. The accidents mostly occur at night, in more urban areas and at non-intersection locations.
Intoxicated drivers or walkers cause almost 50 percent of pedestrian fatalities. Unfortunately, a high percentage of these accidents turn into hit and runs at the hands of irresponsible drivers.
Not all accidents can be prevented, but knowing the simple precautions can help reduce the risk. As a pedestrian, always stay on the sidewalks and remember if you can see a car at night, it doesn’t mean the driver can see you.
We’re here to help if you were or someone you loved was injured or killed in a pedestrian traffic accident. Contact us today!
Bike Accidents
Like pedestrians, cyclists face increased risks when on the road. The push from many cities toward greener and healthier lifestyles is increasing the amount of those choosing to ride, placing more bikes on the same roads as cars.
Some cities create bike only lanes, but accidents still occur. Most fatal cycling accidents happen in the dark in an urban area away from an intersection.
Last year the number of bike-related fatalities rose to 726 and two percent of all traffic deaths, the largest percentage in 10 years. Over the last nine years, injuries resulting from a bike traffic accident rose nine percent to 49,000 in 2012.
When it comes to sharing the road, bicycle laws vary from state to state.
In the meantime, always remember some basic tips. First and foremost, wear a helmet. They reduce the risk of serious brain injury after an accident of any nature. Wear bright, reflective clothing to better stand out to vehicles passing and learn more about new road sharing laws to help keep you safe.
If you have been injured by a driver’s negligence while riding a bike, we want to help. Contact us as soon as possible so we can help you determine your life after a bike related traffic accident.
