The time between Halloween and New Year’s can be one of the busiest times of the year. Many people are constantly on the go, with shopping and celebrations filling their calendars. In addition to more events, people also spend more time on the road and out in public. This can lead to an increase in pedestrian accidents.
Pedestrian Accident Statistics
Data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that the occurrence of pedestrian accidents continues to increase. In fact, rates have increased, on average, by 3% each year. They also note that most pedestrian accidents occur from distracted driving.
What Causes Pedestrian Accidents?
A lot of things can lead to pedestrian accidents, including distractions or bad weather. The factors that contribute to an increase in pedestrian accidents during the holiday season include:
- Winter weather: The holiday season is right in the middle of winter. The roads are slippery and the sidewalks can be coated with ice, leading to more pedestrian accidents.
- Distractions: Distractions are a big contributor to pedestrian accidents, especially around the holidays. People may be focused on their smartphones. Distractions can affect both the driver and the pedestrian, leading to a dangerous situation.
- Drunk driving: The holidays also bring with them an increase in drunk driving occurrences. Drunk drivers are less likely to notice pedestrians.
- Parking lots: Many pedestrian accidents occur in parking lots, where people are less likely to follow the rules. They may speed between spaces and fail to look for pedestrians.
Pedestrian accidents tend to be worse than vehicle accidents. Pedestrians frequently suffer from painful and expensive injuries. Their injuries may prevent them from returning to work. The cost implications of pedestrian injuries are also significant. An injured pedestrian may not only require immediate care but also ongoing and future medical care.
How To Stay Safe As A Pedestrian
Whether you rely on walking as your primary mode of getting around, or you enjoy a mid-afternoon walk, it’s important to review a few safety tips. Here are a few tips you can use to stay safe as a pedestrian this holiday season:
- Wear bright colors: It gets darker earlier in the winter months, making it difficult for drivers to notice pedestrians. Wear bright colors or use reflective tape on clothing items to ensure that you’re noticed, even when walking at night.
- Avoid distractions: Avoiding distractions isn’t only important when you’re driving a vehicle, but also as a pedestrian. Looking down at your phone can make it impossible to notice a vehicle coming at you. You may not have enough time to get out of the way.
- Use crosswalks: You’re less likely to be injured as a pedestrian when you use the designated crosswalks.
- Take care in lots: Parking lots can be dangerous for pedestrians, as drivers tend to speed through them. Take additional precautions and look both ways before walking.
It’s also important to also know your rights as a pedestrian. If someone else’s negligence causes you to become injured, you may be able to recover your damages through a personal injury case.
Contact A Little Falls Personal Injury Lawyer To Discuss Your Pedestrian Accident Case In New Jersey
Did you or a loved one sustain serious injuries due to an accident in New Jersey? Don’t let the medical bills pile up while you wait for the negligent party or their insurance company to do the right thing. Right now, you need an aggressive personal injury attorney on your side, fighting to get you the compensation you need, want, and deserve. The skilled attorneys at Camili & Capo, PA represent clients injured because of a pedestrian accident in Little Falls, Woodland Park, Laurel Grove, Cedar Grove, and throughout New Jersey. Call (973) 834-8457 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a free consultation about your case. We have an office conveniently located at 1 Lower Notch Road, Little Falls, NJ 07424.
The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney-client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.
