Improving Pedestrian Safety in 2023

California and other states throughout the U.S. are doing more to promote active forms of transportation like bicycling and walking. Thankfully, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has a ton of resources for improving safety for vulnerable roadway users like pedestrians.  

Walkable cities are great for improving health and reducing traffic congestion and pollution. That being said, pedestrians are still one of the most vulnerable roadway user groups in the U.S. There are still lots of places that don’t have adequate crosswalks and other pedestrian-friendly infrastructure. Pedestrians are truly at the mercy of the drivers who they share the roadways with.  

Pedestrian Safety by The Numbers  

  • In 2020, there were 6,516 pedestrians killed in the U.S.  
  • That is 18 pedestrians a day and 125 pedestrians a week.
  • On average, a pedestrian was killed every 81 minutes and injured every 10 minutes in a crash in 2020.  

Everyone is a Pedestrian  

The Everyone is a Pedestrian campaign is aimed at raising awareness about the dangers facing pedestrians on U.S. roadways. The goal is to remind motorists that everyone is a pedestrian at some time or another. Whether you’re a pedestrian walking to work or to school or just walking to your car in a parking lot, you’re around a lot of large fast motor vehicles.  

Drivers need to be on the lookout for pedestrians at all times. Navigating carefully and slowly through residential areas and parking lots is especially important. Expect children in neighborhoods, especially at before and after-school times. Above all, make a commitment to distraction-free driving. You’re not looking out for pedestrians, if you’re looking at your phone.  

Pedestrian Accidents in San Diego  

After any kind of accident involving a motor vehicle and a pedestrian, it’s a good idea to speak with a Personal Injury lawyer about your case. Even at relatively low speeds, getting hit by a car can be catastrophic or even fatal for pedestrians.  

If you have been injured or if you have lost a loved one in a pedestrian accident in San Diego or anywhere in Southern California, contact the skilled and proven team at Harris Personal Injury Lawyers, Inc. at 1.800.GO.HARRIS for a free case consultation today.