Where do Most Pedestrian Accidents Occur?

When and where most pedestrian accidents occur is in cities, in streets outside of intersections, and at night. Other areas where these accidents are more likely include parking lots and on private property, such as in driveways. Pedestrians may also suffer injuries when a driver ignores traffic signals and causes an intersection collision.

Knowing where pedestrian accidents are most likely to occur can help you avoid these collisions or better understand your own accident. If you were a pedestrian hurt because of a negligent driver, you might be able to take legal action to seek compensation for your medical treatment and other damages.

Walking in an Urban Area Increases the Risk of a Crash

Most pedestrian accident fatalities occur in urban areas, according to the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA). Not only are there more pedestrians in cities, but there is also more traffic. This combination means it is more likely that a pedestrian will encounter a motor vehicle.

Most modern cities in the United States are designed with automobiles in mind. Even “mixed-use” developments that promote walkability have roads to move cargo, allow residents and customers to park, and more. While there are numerous options for making commuting on foot and crossing streets safer, any time cars and pedestrians cross paths, there is a risk of injury.

Most Pedestrian Accidents Occur Outside of Crosswalks

Where most pedestrian accidents occur tells us something about the cause of many of these accidents. Most do not occur in marked crosswalks or other designated areas in an intersection. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), of the fatal accidents that took the life of a pedestrian in 2017:

• Seventy-three percent occurred outside of a designated crosswalk or intersection, focused primarily on the street mid-block, highways or interstates, and rural roadways.
• Eighteen percent occurred in an intersection, with or without a marked crosswalk.
• Nine percent occurred in other areas, such as the shoulder of the road, parking lots, sidewalks or paths, bike lanes, and driveways.

These statistics show the importance of using crosswalks and crossing at intersections when possible. The most dangerous place a pedestrian can be is in the street outside of an intersection, whether they are walking along the road or crossing mid-block. Using sidewalks and walking paths, crossing only when it is safe to do so, and teaching children the dangers of stepping into the road without due care can prevent serious injuries and death.

Pedestrian Accidents Are More Likely at Night

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), most fatal pedestrian accidents occur at night. It may be possible to reduce the occurrences of many of these crashes by ensuring you are visible when you are walking after dark. This increased visibility could include wearing light colors and reflective clothing, carrying a flashlight or wearing a headlamp, and outfitting your pet with a reflective leash and collar if you are out walking your dog.

While nighttime is no defense for failing to see a pedestrian crossing the street in an intersection or crosswalk, ensuring you are visible to approaching motorists could save your life.                  

Pedestrian Accident Victims May Have a Case Against a Negligent Driver

If you were the victim of a pedestrian accident, the driver who hit you might be legally liable for your expenses and losses. If you can prove they acted carelessly or recklessly, you may be able to hold them accountable and collect a financial recovery. You will need to gather evidence to show their negligence as well as document your damages.

Proving your damages is not always easy. You may face ongoing care costs, future medical needs, and intangible losses that include physical pain and emotional suffering, which are difficult to quantify. Working with a personal injury attorney can help you navigate this process.

Your lawyer may be able to settle your case during negotiations with the driver’s auto insurance company, avoiding going to trial and securing a fair payout based on your actual damages. However, your attorney can file a lawsuit should no fair settlement be reached.

Speak with Morris Bart, LLC About Your Pedestrian Collision Case

We provide free case evaluations to accident victims in New Orleans, as well as those across Louisiana, Alabama, Mississippi, and Arkansas. Call (504) 613-4771 now to speak with a team member who can discuss your case with you and analyze your options.

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