Pedestrian accidents are becoming more prevalent around the world. An estimated 1.35 million people die every year due to road traffic crashes, out of which around 20% are pedestrians. The need to prevent pedestrian accidents has never been more urgent. In this article, we will discuss the most common causes of pedestrian accidents and how to prevent them.
Table of Contents
Causes of Pedestrian Accidents
There are several causes of pedestrian accidents. A major one is driver negligence, which includes:
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is one of the primary causes of pedestrian accidents. When drivers operate their vehicles while engaging in activities that distract their attention, they are more likely to hit a pedestrian. Examples of distracted driving include texting, talking on the phone, eating, grooming, and adjusting the radio or GPS.
Speeding
Excessive speed is another common cause of pedestrian accidents. When drivers exceed the speed limit or drive too fast for the road conditions, they have less time to react to unexpected situations, such as pedestrians crossing the road.
Failure to Yield
Pedestrians have the right of way in designated crosswalks and intersections. However, some drivers fail to yield to pedestrians, leading to accidents.
Driving Under the Influence
Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol impairs a driver’s ability to operate their vehicle safely. Impaired drivers have slow reaction times, poor judgment, and impaired vision, which can cause them to hit pedestrians.
How to Prevent Pedestrian Accidents
Preventing pedestrian accidents requires a collaborative effort from all road users: drivers, pedestrians, and policymakers. Below are some tips to help prevent pedestrian accidents:
For Drivers
- Follow speed limits and traffic signals, especially in areas where pedestrians are likely to be present.
- Avoid distracted driving. Put your phone away and avoid eating or grooming while driving.
- Be aware of pedestrians at all times, especially when backing out of driveways or making turns.
- Yield to pedestrians in crosswalks and intersections.
- Avoid driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
For Pedestrians
- Use designated crosswalks and intersections to cross the road.
- Look both ways before stepping into the road.
- Avoid distractions, such as using your phone, when crossing the road.
- Be visible. Wear reflective clothing during low-light conditions.
- Follow traffic signals and signs.
For Policymakers
- Build safer roads and sidewalks that prioritize pedestrians.
- Install traffic calming measures, such as speed bumps and roundabouts.
- Increase public education and awareness campaigns about pedestrian safety.
- Enforce traffic laws related to pedestrian safety.
Conclusion
Pedestrian accidents can have severe consequences, and it is everyone’s responsibility to prevent them. Drivers, pedestrians, and policymakers can all take steps to make our roads safer for everyone. Drivers should avoid distractions, follow speed limits, and yield to pedestrians. Pedestrians should use designated crosswalks, be visible, and avoid distractions when crossing the road. Policymakers can build safer roads, install traffic calming measures, and increase awareness campaigns about pedestrian safety. Let us all work together to reduce the number of pedestrian accidents on our roads.