Increased Driver Attention Needed in Popular Pedestrian Areas

Vehicle accidents don’t only refer to collisions with cars. In fact, a large percentage of the accidents that are reported in America have caused harm and fatalities to pedestrians in addition to vehicle occupants.

The Center for Disease Control reported that 5,987 pedestrians died in vehicle accidents in 2016 (the greatest increase since 1990). Many drivers take extra care to avoid accidents with other cars, but many drivers fail to remember that their cars could impair pedestrians significantly if they do not watch carefully.

When drivers get behind the wheel, they are liable for the well being of other drivers and any pedestrians that they may come into close proximity with on the way. “Drivers must be vigilant about watching for pedestrians, in addition to many other common roadway hazards. An individual has a much higher chance of sustaining severe harm or death when not protected by metal layers, seat belts, and airbags,” cautioned Laurence B. Green, attorney and co-founder of Berger and Green.

While drivers must always anticipate that a pedestrian could be nearby, the following areas urgently require driver attention.

Busy Urban Locations

People who live in an urban area are likely accustomed to sharing the streets with pedestrians. However, recently in D.C. a car accidentally hit four pedestrians who were minding their own business on a sidewalk. It is imperative that drivers minimize distractions and pay attention to pedestrians utilizing sidewalks, crosswalks, and roadways. Some drivers may not be used to the high numbers of pedestrians in metropolitan areas, but if drivers are not confident that they can be cautious in these areas they need to avoid them.

School Zones

There is typically always high pedestrian traffic in school areas. The CDC estimated that 20% of kids between 5-9 years old who die in vehicle collisions are pedestrians. Crosswalks should have drivers’ undivided attention, and drivers should take extra care when people are getting on and off of school buses.

Special Events

Concerts, sporting events, and festivals often mean that there are more pedestrians on and around the street than there normally would be. Detours are advised for drivers who are not attending the events, as additional waiting and traveling time often occur due to street festivals.

Parking Lots

Pedestrians and vehicles use parking lots frequently, which is why drivers must utilize tremendous caution. People walking through parking lots usually do not have designated walkways to use. Drivers should check mirrors often and should scan the parking lot frequently.

Holidays

Memorial Day, Independence Day, Mardi Gras, Veterans’ Day, and many more holidays attract people outside. Complex street parades are often held around other holidays such as Thanksgiving and Christmas. Roads are typically blocked off, but the vicinity of a street event can still be filled with (sometimes intoxicated) pedestrians. Other holidays such as Halloween could mean that many children will be out on the sidewalks. Drivers should anticipate a longer travel time and should be prepared to be more cautious.