How Common are Pedestrian Accidents in Texas?
Originally published: February 8, 2018
Updated on: October 10, 2018
Pedestrian accidents result in serious and potentially life-threatening personal injuries for thousands of people in Texas and New Mexico. Unfortunately, these accidents are common, and the number of people affected continues to increase each year. Understanding risks and how pedestrian accidents often occur plays an important role in protecting yourself and keeping your loved ones safe.
Pedestrian Accidents In Texas
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports nearly 600 people were killed in pedestrian accidents in Texas over the course of 2015, while more than 3,500 others suffered serious and potentially disabling injuries. Compared to other areas, Texas is ranked tenth in the nation in terms of the percent of pedestrian fatalities, and the state has the highest overall number of pedestrian injuries. What makes accidents involving pedestrians so common in our area?
While problems with road infrastructure – such as a lack of sidewalks, traffic signals, street lights, and crosswalks – put pedestrians at risk, dangerous driver behaviors are the most common factor in pedestrian accidents. This includes:
- Speeding and going too fast despite the conditions. Speed limits are set for a reason, especially during bad weather or when roads are undergoing extensive work. Ignoring them puts drivers at a greater risk of losing control of their vehicles, which can lead to accidents involving pedestrians much more easily.
- Distracted driving, such as using cell phones and texting while driving. When drivers take their eyes off the road, they endanger other drivers and pedestrians in the vicinity. It only takes a second for a pedestrian to move into a vehicle’s path, so pay close attention to distracted drivers while crossing the street as a pedestrian.
- Reckless driving, such as disregarding stop lights and other traffic signals. Stop lights and traffic signals are not only there to facilitate traffic, but also to keep crosswalks and sidewalks safe. In many cases, drivers ignore these signs – sometimes while driving in congested areas (like El Paso). Watching for reckless drivers is crucial to both innocent drivers’ safety and the safety of other innocent pedestrians.
- Driving under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or even prescription medication. Any time a person drives while impaired, they put everyone on or near the road – including pedestrians – at risk. It is that simple.
Know the Risks
Unfortunately, despite the efforts of law enforcement and public service campaigns, pedestrian accidents in Texas continue to become more common each year. The Texas Department of Transportation (DOT) reports that in 2016, there were close to 700 pedestrian fatalities, which is more than a 20 percent increase over the previous year’s figures. What can you do to help decrease your risks? The NHTSA recommends the following:
- Use sidewalks. If there is no sidewalk available, walk facing traffic and as far to the side of the road as possible. Doing so will give you the opportunity to see if you need to jump out of the way, should a driver enter your walking path.
- Use crosswalks. Always look both ways before entering a crosswalk. If no crosswalk is available, look for the nearest traffic light or intersection. “Jaywalking” is not only illegal, but can be extremely dangerous.
- Be visible. Wear bright, light-colored clothing, particularly when walking at night. Reflective colors, such as those of a neon shade, are even better.
- Pay attention. Keep your eyes and your mind focused on safety while walking and avoid distractions, such as using earbuds to listen to music or talking on the phone. I might seem silly, but being able to use all of your senses – including your ability to hear cars or trucks that may be in danger of colliding with you – can go a long way to ensuring your safety.
- Be sober. Do not walk under the influence of alcohol or drugs. This significantly increases your risks for pedestrian accidents and injuries.
The NHTSA also warns drivers to be alert and on the lookout for pedestrians when driving, particularly near stores, schools, parks, and other areas where people congregate. Drivers whose actions result in pedestrian accidents can be held liable for any injuries or damages that result.
Contact Us Today for Help
If you or someone you care about is injured in a pedestrian accident, contact the Lovett Law Firm right away. Dedicated to serving and protecting people in El Paso, TX, Las Cruces, NM, and the surrounding areas, we provide the professional legal representation you need to get compensation for the damages you have suffered. Call or contact us online and request a free consultation today.
Are you a pedestrian who was injured in a car accident? Get information on how we can help you get the compensation you deserve from accidents caused by reckless drivers. Call Lovett Law Firm, personal injury and accident lawyer in El Paso, TX and Las Cruces, NM today at 915-757-9999 (El Paso, Texas) or 575-523-5555 (Las Cruces, New Mexico) to request a free initial legal consultation with our experienced accident attorney.