Distracted driving a serious threat to pedestrians

March 19, 2014 (Press-News.org) After numerous, nationwide public awareness campaigns, most people are now cognizant of the fact that driving while distracted increases the risk of causing a motor vehicle accident. People often fail to consider, however, that driving while distracted can also threaten the safety of pedestrians in the U.S.

According to a study conducted by researchers from the University of Nebraska, the number of pedestrians killed in distracted driving accidents in the United States increased significantly from 2005 to 2010. In 2005, 344 pedestrians were killed by distracted drivers -- by 2010, that figure had risen to 500 pedestrian deaths across the country.

Based on statistics from the U.S. Fatality Analysis Reporting System, pedestrians killed by distracted drivers were most likely to be male, between 25 and 64 years of age and Caucasian. Those killed in such collisions were also at greater risk at night and were more likely to be struck while walking in a metropolitan area.

The number of pedestrian deaths in the U.S. was on a steady, three-year rise from 2009 to 2012. During that period, the number of such fatalities rose 15 percent across the country. During just the first six months of 2012, 2,175 pedestrians lost their lives in auto accidents across the United States.

Avoid pedestrian accidents in Georgia

Many are hopeful that various programs and awareness campaigns will help make our streets safer for all who use them. For instance, "Complete Streets" is a program in effect across the United States that is meant to ensure that streets are designed to be safe for pedestrians, bicyclists and motor vehicles.

In addition, the Georgia Department of Transportation has created a safety action plan for both bicyclists and pedestrians. The Georgia DOT has suggested areas in which improvements could be made to ensure Georgia's roads are safe for pedestrians. In addition, the safety action plan points out the areas in the state that are the most dangerous for pedestrians.

According to the Georgia Department of Transportation, an average of over 160 pedestrians lost their lives in motor vehicle accidents annually from 2004 to 2006 in Georgia. In total, an average of over 2,500 pedestrian accidents took place in Georgia each year from 2004 to 2006.

If you have been injured or if you have lost a loved one in a pedestrian accident, you may be able to receive damages to account for the harm caused in the collision. Consider seeking the counsel of a knowledgeable personal injury attorney to ensure the rights of the injured party are protected.

Article provided by Law & Moran Attorneys at Law
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