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It shouldn’t be a surprise that incidents involving vehicles v. pedestrians are usually fatal. Information from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety reveals that, when pedestrian fatalities occur, more than 70% take place in urban settings and they occur at spots OTHER than intersections. Also, nearly 50% of fatalities took place between 6 p.m. and Midnight.
Typically it is in our role as drivers where we place the emphasis on safe behavior. Naturally it is important that drivers take extra care by being extra cautious when traveling through any areas with high pedestrian traffic. It’s important to be aware of situations where pedestrians may attempt to cross a road at spots other than intersections (a particular problem with children). Another, very important consideration is to reduce speed; especially at night. The faster you operate a car, the less likely you will be able to react to a pedestrian in your path.
It may be even more important that we adjust our behavior to prevent accidents while traveling on foot. After all, it is far easier to stay out of the path of a car than it is for a driver to spot a pedestrian and stop in time.
Pedestrians should do the following:
- Always . . . ALWAYS check for traffic!
- Restrict the use of smart phones and similar devices while walking
- Avoid crossing streets at places other than well-marked pedestrian crossings
- At night, if possible, wear reflective clothing or carry a flashlight
- When crossing at traffic light, do so with the light
- Pay attention in busy parking lots and parking garages
Sharing the road with vehicles is always dangerous. Pedestrians are safest when they remember this fact and act accordingly.
To find out if you’re properly covered in the event of an auto accident involving a pedestrian, please contact our Personal Insurance division.