Pedestrians Deaths Increased in 2010

Pedestrians should always exercise care while walking in close proximity to vehicles. Today, that’s even more important than ever.  According to new data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, pedestrian fatalities rose by four percent in 2010.

The statistics show that 4,280 pedestrians died in motor vehicle collisions in 2010. They accounted for 13 percent of all traffic fatalities and three percent of injuries reported during the year. The bulk of deadly collisions occurred in urban areas, and 63 percent of the pedestrian accidents occurred at night.

Sixty-one pedestrians lost their lives in Kentucky traffic accidents in 2010, accounting for eight percent of all traffic fatalities. Although that nowhere approaches the number of pedestrian deaths in other states in 2010 – 487 in Florida and 345 in Texas, it is still a disturbing number that reflects the need for both drivers and pedestrians to be cautious and behave responsibly in traffic.

The following safety tips can help both pedestrians and drivers arrive at their destinations safe and accident-free:

For pedestrians:

• Walk on a sidewalk or path when available.
• Limit distractions while walking. Talking on cell phones, checking social networking sites, listening to music, applying makeup and even reading while walking have been attributed to many accidents and injuries.
• Pay extra attention at night. Pedestrians may be difficult to see in dark conditions, even if they are crossing in marked intersections.
• Stay off highways, restricted-access roads and other pedestrian-prohibited roadways.
• Walk where drivers expect pedestrians to be. Always use an intersection if available, even if it puts you out of your way a little.
• Avoid walking while under the influence of alcohol. A contributing factor in many pedestrian accidents is actually alcohol use by the pedestrian, not only the driver.

For drivers:

• Keep an eye out for pedestrians at all times.
• Recognize that pedestrians are easily concealed in blind spots, dark conditions and bad weather.
• Remember that pedestrians have the right-of-way in crosswalks. Stop.
• Obey the speed limit on all roads, including school zones and construction zones.
• Never pass a vehicle that comes to a stop at a crosswalk. If they stopped, there’s probably a good reason.
• Drive carefully in neighborhoods, where children are especially likely to be present. Kids do not necessarily have the best judgment when it comes to safety and may dart in the street at any moment.
• Never operate a vehicle if you’ve been drinking alcohol or using drugs.