Pedestrians Being Hit By Cars: Why Does This Keep Happening?

Every day, Americans take the road in a variety of ways, ranging from cars, public transport, or even by foot. U.S. roads are unfortunately not as safe as one might think. In fact, according to a new study, American pedestrians are not as safe as they might believe. Many assume that car accidents are more likely to occur to drivers. But, according to NPR, walking can be highly dangerous. U.S. pedestrian deaths reach a 40-year high with over 7,500 pedestrians hit and killed by drivers in 2022. For comparison, this is the highest since 1981. 

Even when they are not fatal, car accidents involving pedestrians can lead to devastating injuries, leaving victims with physical, emotional, and financial burdens that need to be addressed as explained by this expert pedestrian accident lawyer from Van Law Firm. Yet as the number of pedestrian accidents continues to rise, it becomes crucial to examine the underlying reasons contributing to these events. While this doesn’t negate the need for proper compensation, it would be interesting to shed light on the importance of road safety and responsible driving. 

Driving under the influence

This ranks among the top most frequent causes for pedestrian accidents. Yet, driving under the influence is evolving. Many impaired drivers still fall within the category of illegal drugs or excessive alcohol consumption. However, in recent years, an increasing number of individuals have been struggling to cope with extreme anxiety, seeking relief through alternative prescriptions or medications. While these substances may be legally obtained, they can still impair a person’s ability to drive and react behind the wheel.  

Cannabis in particular has gained popularity for its medicinal benefits in various states across the USA. In states where recreational or medical cannabis is allowed, consumers have chosen to consume in an effort to relieve existing health conditions, including anxiety. Unfortunately, cannabis, unlike CBD products, can  have a severe impact on the brain and therefore driving skills. 

Reckless driving

The allure of fast cars and the thrill of speed can entice drivers, particularly inexperienced ones, to engage in reckless driving habits. Excessive speeding, aggressive maneuvers, and street racing are some examples of reckless driving practices that have been popularized by no less than Hollywood blockbusters. Does it excuse bad manners on the road? Of courts not, but it certainly explains why many drivers may not realize the risks involved in those practices.

Unfortunately, losing control of the vehicle is, by far, the most likely consequence of Hollywood-inspired driving. And when one loses control, pedestrians could lose their lives in the process. 

Failure to avoid pedestrians

This may sound like an excuse, but many pedestrians fail to take responsibility when it comes to road safety. While not all accidents are caused by pedestrians’ recklessness, failure to follow traffic laws while crossing the road, can also contribute to unnecessary collisions. Pedestrians are prone to be distracted, such as texting while walking, and end up crossing at undesignated locations and disregarding traffic signals. 

Additionally, many pedestrians also assume they have the right of way in all situations, even when it is unsafe to cross. Ultimately, even the safest drivers cannot avoid pedestrians who appear suddenly in front of their vehicles out of a blind corner where there is no zebra crossing. 

As pedestrian accidents are on the rise, it is time to address the root causes that create unsafe roads for everyone. From extreme anxiety disorders to glamorizing criminal driving practices, we, as a society, must take responsibility.