Conditions for pedestrians in California are more dangerous than at any time in the last 41 years. Safety experts across the state have reached this consensus. More than 7,500 people were killed in pedestrian accidents in the past year. This figure represents an increase of 77% over the total that was recorded in 2010.
Why are accidents becoming more common?
Pedestrian accidents are becoming deadlier even as they grow more common. This is partly due to the preference of modern consumers for heavier trucks and SUVs. These vehicles ride harder and hit pedestrians with a great deal more impact than the average small or midsize car.
Most of these crashes occurred after dark. The fact that adequate planning for pedestrians is still not prevalent on major U.S. roads has raised the death toll. Many of these pedestrians were not wearing reflective gear. As a result, some drivers did not even see them before hitting them.
Pedestrian safety has become a major issue
Injuries due to accidents involving pedestrians have only continued to increase over the past several years. Safety experts are urging vehicle drivers and pedestrians alike to pay closer attention to the rules of road safety. For example, pedestrians should stay closer to the shoulder of the road. This will keep them as far away as possible from the center lanes where a collision can easily occur.
Pedestrians should also observe all the routine safety laws, such as checking both ways before crossing a road. They should make a point to wear reflective clothing. This type of gear helps them stay visible to drivers, particularly at night. Meanwhile, drivers should minimize distractions and keep to a safe speed around pedestrians.