Keeping An Eye Out For Dallas Pedestrians On Election Day
The safety of pedestrians has been declining every year since 2009, making roads increasingly perilous for those on foot. By 2021, there were 3,000 more pedestrian fatalities compared to 2009. This alarming increase in pedestrian deaths is particularly concerning in the United States, as other countries have seen a steady decline in such incidents.
The Federal Government keeps a detailed database that tracks information about fatalities that occur on the roads. This includes data like the make and model of the vehicle involved, the ages of both the driver and the deceased, the time of the incident, and other relevant details. Despite having access to all this information, it remains unclear what is driving the alarming increase in pedestrian deaths.
Common Causes of Accidents Involving Vehicle and Pedestrians
Smartphones. One major factor that could shed light on the rise in pedestrian accidents starting in 2009 is the arrival of smartphones. Apple launched the iPhone in 2007, and after that, smartphones gained immense popularity. These devices introduced a new wave of distractions for drivers, making it harder for them to stay focused on the road. With the rise of touchscreen phones and apps, car technology has significantly advanced as well. In the past, vehicles had only a few basic controls, like buttons and dials, which made them pretty simple to operate. Nowadays, however, cars are incorporating touchscreens and a greater variety of buttons, enhancing the overall driving experience. This surge in automotive technology could also be a factor contributing to the recent spike in pedestrian fatalities.
Vehicle Size. It might seem odd, but larger cars can actually pose a greater risk to pedestrians. This is because bigger vehicles have taller hoods, which increases the chances of a person being struck in critical areas like the chest, torso, or head. These parts of the body are far more vulnerable to serious injury compared to being hit in the legs, making larger cars more dangerous in accidents involving pedestrians. A car’s size and weight play a significant role in how quickly it can stop. Heavier and larger vehicles take more time to halt completely. This slower braking can be dangerous, especially if a driver is not paying attention, as they might not react in time to avoid hitting a pedestrian.
Population Density. One more reason that could contribute to the rise in pedestrian fatalities is that there are more pedestrians in situations where they could be at risk of a fatal accident. This is particularly relevant today, as many people are walking on the streets and are often found standing nearer to the roadways. One significant demographic issue contributing to the rise in pedestrians on perilous roads during nighttime is the growing trend of suburban poverty. Many individuals are leaving costly urban centers and settling in suburban areas. A considerable number of these newcomers lack the financial means to own a car, forcing them to walk to their jobs along narrow or rural roads instead of safer, well-lit streets equipped with sidewalks. This shift means that more people are navigating regions with limited crosswalks and often no sidewalks at all. Additionally, some of these individuals work irregular hours or depend on infrequent bus services, which further heightens their risk of encountering dangerous road conditions where they could be struck by vehicles.
IF YOU WERE A PEDESTRIAN INJURED BY A CARELESS DRIVER, CONTACT US TODAY.
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