Precautions for Those Walking on or Near Roadways in Citrus County

Walking, while good for your health and the environment, can actually be quite dangerous. Before you step out for a stroll, go for a jog or just run an errand on foot, there are a few safety tips you should remember.

Pedestrians, or those travelling on foot, are actually among the most vulnerable when on or near the road.

In fact, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, in the next 24 hours, on average, more than 460 people throughout the United States will be treated in an emergency room for a pedestrian traffic-related injury. Even more disturbing, in the next 2 hours, on average, one pedestrian will die from injuries sustained in a traffic collision.

In 2010, more than 4,200 pedestrians were killed in traffic accidents and another 70,000 suffered personal injuries. These statistics prove just how important it is to understand the risks of being a pedestrian and how to stay safe when walking.

While pedestrians of all ages are at risk of injury or death should a traffic collision occur, certain individuals are at an increased risk when walking, including:

Male pedestrians. The CDC states that men are more likely to become injured or killed in a pedestrian vs. motor vehicle crash than females.

Teens and young adults ages 15-29. The CDC says these pedestrians are more likely to be treated in emergency rooms for traffic-related injuries than any other age group.
Intoxicated Pedestrians. According to the CDC, 33 percent of all pedestrians killed in traffic accidents in 2010 were legally drunk, with a BAC equal to or greater than 0.08.

Children. Children are at an increased risk of injury or death from a traffic accident simply because of their small frame and inexperience when it comes to pedestrian safety. Sadly, children 14 years old and younger account for nearly one in four pedestrian traffic deaths, according to the CDC.

Follow these safety tips whenever you are walking so that you and those closest to you make it safely to and from wherever you are going:

• Always keep a close eye on children when you are walking near traffic.
• Use a crosswalk when crossing the street.
• Pay close attention when you are approaching intersections as drivers do not always yield to pedestrians when turning onto another street.
• If you are walking at night, carrying a flashlight or wearing retro-reflective clothing can increase your visibility to motorists.
• It is always safest to walk on the sidewalk, but if you have to walk in the street, make sure you walk facing traffic.

A tragic pedestrian accident can occur in a matter of seconds, leaving injury victims left to deal with extreme physical pain and financial hardships. A Citrus County Injury Attorney at Whittel & Melton can help guide you through what steps to take next. Our ultimate goal is to make sure you obtain just financial compensation for your injury and loss. For a free consultation, contact us today online or call 352-726-0078. We will never hold you responsible for any attorney’s fees unless there is a successful financial recovery for your damages.