Pedestrian Accident Facts

A pedestrian is no match for a car, truck, van or SUV. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), thousands of people are killed each year in pedestrian accidents across the country. In 2007, which is the latest data available, 4,654 pedestrians died in traffic accidents. Based on this number, someone is killed approximately every two hours in a pedestrian accident.

The NHTSA's 2007 Traffic Safety Facts Report - Pedestrians stated that 70,000 pedestrians were injured in motor vehicle accidents in 2007, which translates into an injury every 8 minutes. According to the report, the majority of pedestrians who were killed were male, which made up 70 percent of all 2007 pedestrian fatalities.

Children are often the victims of pedestrian accidents, as they are known for darting out into streets. In 2007, children ages 5 and younger made up the largest percentage of people killed in pedestrian collisions. However, when it came to injuries, children ages 10 to 15 had the highest percentage of pedestrian injuries.

The NHTSA report provides important safety reminders to both motorists and pedestrians, which are summarized below:

• Motorists must yield the right-of-way to pedestrians crossing the streets in crosswalks in the majority of situations.
• Always be cautious at intersections where a driver may be turning onto another street.
• Try to cross the street at a crosswalk.
• If you are walking at night, carry a flashlight or wear retro-reflective clothing.
• When there is no sidewalk available, walk facing traffic.

If you have been injured in a pedestrian accident, you need to contact an experienced pedestrian accident lawyer to learn your rights. Contact an Orange County accident attorney at the law office of Allen, Flatt, Ballidis & Leslie at 866-981-5596 for a free legal consultation.

*Source: NHTSA- 2007 Traffic Safety Facts Report: Pedestrians