While traffic fatalities occur daily all over the country, some cities and states are more dangerous than others. In particular, there has been an increase in the number of people who are struck and killed while walking, and according to statistics, Texas is at the top of the list for pedestrian deaths.
If you live in Texas or plan on moving there, you should be familiar with the following information as it may change your mind or help you understand the dangers of being a pedestrian.
The Numbers Do Not Lie
According to the data provided by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in the past year (2019), the total number of pedestrian fatalities increased by 3.4 percent. Ever since the early 2000s, pedestrian fatalities have been on the rise. This is because of many different reasons, including:
- Highly populated areas (cities have grown in size and population over the years)
- The increase in traffic (there are almost three times more cars today than they were on the roads 20 years ago)
With that in mind, you should be extremely careful when walking around. If you happen to end up in an accident, before you jump to conclusions, speak with Dallas pedestrian accident lawyers and see if you are eligible to file a claim against the party responsible for causing the accident.
Tips To Increase Safety
As a pedestrian, there are many things that you can do to increase your safety on the road. These actions include the following:
- Walking on the sidewalk, away from the street
- Crossing the street only at marked crossings
- Always double-checking both left and right before crossing the street
- Even though you have the right of way at the crossings, always check the road to ensure there are no speeding vehicles approaching
- Do not drink and walk around
- Wear the right (bright) clothes, potentially ones that reflect lights. This is especially important if you are walking at night
Did you know that in 2017, Texas alone accounted for 10 percent of all pedestrian fatalities nationwide? That goes to show just how dangerous it is being a pedestrian in the state of Texas. Be sure to do everything you can to increase your safety.
Accidents can occur at any time. Turn your attention from the road for one second, and you could end up in an accident. And when that happens, you should immediately contact lawyers as they could help evaluate your case and potentially help you obtain compensation for your damages. If it can be proven that it was not your fault and your actions that caused the accident, you will be eligible to file a claim against the responsible party and obtain compensation for your:
- Medical bills
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
Do not risk your life. Avoid acting recklessly close to the road, and be as careful as you can, especially around large intersections. It is your life that is at stake. Always keep that in mind.
COMMENTS