How to Mitigate Chances of Pedestrian Injury or Death

 Posted on December 00, 0000 in Lake County Injury Attorney

Pedestrian deaths, despite recent initiatives undertaken across several major American cities encouraging drivers to be more aware of non-car users on the road, still remain a serious issue in the U.S. In 2012, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly 5,000 pedestrians were killed in traffic crashes and another estimated 76,000 pedestrians were injured. This boils down to one pedestrian death caused by cars every two hours nationwide, and one injury ever seven minutes. While the onus for most pedestrian-related crashes falls to the driver of the car, there are several things that pedestrians can do to help mitigate the chance of such an accident. Following traffic laws is clearly the easiest among them.

A common traffic law that is easy to forget to follow pertains to jaywalking and the use of crosswalks. In 2011, according to the University of Illinois, Illinois legislators passed a law requiring all drivers to stop when a pedestrian is in the crosswalk, not merely yield. After decades of yielding, of course, it will take more than five years for all Illinois drivers to adapt to regulations. As such, pedestrians should remove ear buds or stop using a cell phone when crossing the street — even in a crosswalk. Pedestrians, however, can be ticketed if they cross they street without using a crosswalk in Illinois.

There are several other things that a pedestrian can do to help lessen the chance of a motor vehicle related accident. Using a sidewalk is preferable in all situations, but if a sidewalk is not available, the pedestrian should walk on the shoulder of the road, facing traffic. At night, pedestrians — just like cyclists — should always wear light, reflective clothing and/or carry a flashlight. Children should take particular caution, and always walk with an adult when possible.

If you or someone you know was injured in a pedestrian accident in which you were not at fault, the most important step is to seek legal counsel. Do not go through it alone. Contact an experienced Lake County accident attorney today.