Every day, millions of Americans share our roads, whether behind the wheel or on foot. From daily commutes to leisurely walks and runs, pedestrians of all ages and backgrounds rely on these shared spaces. However, this constant interaction creates inherent risks, and certain groups remain disproportionately vulnerable to pedestrian accidents.
Staying aware of these risks and promoting pedestrian safety is more critical than ever in today’s increasingly busy roadways.
Top 4 Victims of Pedestrian Accidents
Because of a number of circumstances, certain groups of people stand a much higher chance of being hit by a car while they are near a roadway. The people at the most risk of a pedestrian accident include:
- Older Adults – According to a study by Transportation for America, people who are 65 years or older are 96% more likely to die in a pedestrian accident than younger individuals. While this can possibly be attributed to their greater chances of suffering from fatal injuries, it’s also likely due to their decreased ability to cross roads quickly.
- Children – One of the leading causes of death for children is pedestrian accidents. This is likely due to their smaller size, making them less easily seen by drivers, and their own unawareness of traffic and road rules.
- Low Income Individuals – Low income individuals, particularly families with a household income less than 25,000, do not typically own cars, making walking an essential every day activity. This alone makes them more vulnerable to being hit by drivers.
- People with Disabilities – Although a lack of proper road infrastructure, such as crosswalks and sidewalks make pedestrian activities more dangerous for everyone, it’s even more so for Americans with disabilities.
- Athletes/Fitness Enthusiasts – Runners, people on bikes and walkers can be at increased risk, especially when exercising during dawn, dusk, or at night, or in areas with limited visibility.
Contact Us
Being a victim of any accident, especially due to someone else’s reckless actions, is traumatizing and burdensome. It can be exponentially more so when you are a pedestrian who is hit by a negligent driver. If you or someone you love has been the victim of a pedestrian accident, contact a Weston pedestrian accident lawyer at Winston Law Firm at (954) 475-9666 to receive the personalized attention and legal support that you deserve.
