A report about pedestrian accidentssuggests that distracted driving may be contributing to a record high in fatal pedestrian accidents.
The Governor’s Highway Safety Association (GHSA) reports that, for the second straight year, pedestrian deaths in the U.S. totaled nearly 6,000. In fact, between 2007 and 2016, the number of pedestrian fatalities increased 27 percent. During the same time period, all other types of traffic accident deaths decreased by 14 percent.
Three Texas counties were among the top 10 counties in the U.S. for pedestrian fatalities in 2016: Harris County (Houston area) with 128 deaths, Dallas with 84, and Bexar (San Antonio area) with 68.
Texas ranked ninth among the states and Washington, D.C., for pedestrian fatality rate, at 2.44 per 100,000 population. New Mexico was No. 1, with 3.45 pedestrian fatalities per 100,000 population.
‘Eyes Down’ Distraction Leads to Pedestrian Deaths
GHSA spokeswoman Maureen Vogel told National Public Radio that the problem is people whose “eyes are down, staring at their phones.” Drivers distracted by their devices are “a well-documented, rising cause of traffic crashes,” she said. Vogel also said that a stronger economy and low gas prices have put more cars on the road and led to people driving more often. Other factors include vehicle speeds and alcohol use.
Compensation for Pedestrians Hit by Cars
Drivers in Texas, New Mexico, and all across the country owe a duty of safety to others on the road, including pedestrians. They must respect the right of way given to pedestrians. They must also avoid engaging in careless and reckless conduct such as speeding, texting or talking on a cell phone while driving or driving while impaired by alcohol or drugs.
If a negligent driver hit you while you walked along the road or crossed the street, you have the right to seek compensation for your medical bills, lost income, pain, suffering and more. No costs should come out of your pocket.
At The Sloan Firm, what matters to you, matters to us. We cannot change what has happened to you, but we believe you should not bear the financial burden caused by someone else’s negligence. If we can help you, you will pay no upfront costs or legal fees unless we obtain a settlement or judgment that provides compensation to you.
Contact Our Experienced East Texas Pedestrian Accident Attorneys
The Sloan Law Firm can dedicate a team of lawyers, investigators, paralegals and support staff to your personal injury or wrongful death case (if your loved one died in a pedestrian accident). We see the person behind the injury. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation review of your case.