Preventing Pedestrian Injuries in Texas

November 21, 2012

Preventing Pedestrian Injuries in Texas

One person died every three hours on Texas roadways in 2011 and The Texas Department of Transportation is trying to change this by asking drivers to "Drive Friendly, Drive Safe." Officials from the Texas DOT recall having to give death notifications to families informing them that their loved ones have been killed in a car crash. One Texas DOT spokesperson said that he hates using the word accident when it comes to giving these notifications because they are not usually accidents but something caused by people who are not paying attention to the road.

Pedestrian Deaths in Houston

In Houston more than 450 pedestrians were involved in crashes in 2011, and 44 of them were killed. More than 180 cyclists were hit as well. One hit-and-run accident this summer killed one pedestrian at the scene and injured another. According to KHOU.com, the pedestrian that was killed was walking near the road and was hit by a truck. The injured pedestrian was away from traffic walking in a grassy area and was hit by pieces of the truck that were flying after the initial crash.

A similar pedestrian accident killed one man after he was crossing a poorly lit Houston street. The driver of the truck that hit him stopped and called for help, according to an article on KHOU.com. Similarly, when a man was walking on the poorly lit shoulder of a Houston road in the evening he was hit by a minivan and died.

Work zones also proved to be a problem in Houston with 600 accidents occurring in work zones in 2011.

Pedestrian Deaths Nationwide

Nationally, about 12 pedestrian deaths occur each day. The number has decreased yearly, in 2010 about 4,280 pedestrians died compared to 5,585 in 1995. An estimated 70,000 pedestrians reported injuries in 2010.

These numbers appear high, and they are. Pedestrians account for over 13 percent of traffic deaths but only 10.9 percent of traffic trips. Walking, however, is a great way to get exercise and to decrease one's carbon footprint. Pedestrians just need to remember to always be visible on the road by wearing bright colors and walking against traffic.

Drivers need to take responsibility for their roles too by always paying attention to the road and watching out for pedestrians. Always allow pedestrians to cross in crosswalks and drivers should make sure that they look both ways when they are at intersections.

Pedestrians injured in car crashes have options. They can pursue an action to hold the at-fault driver responsible and get compensation for their medical bills and other damages. A personal injury attorney can help those pursuing legal action against drivers.

Article provided by Gilde Law Firm
Visit us at http://www.gildelawfirm.com