Types of San Diego Pedestrian Accidents

All pedestrians face unique hazards. There are different types of San Diego pedestrian accidents. However, children and seniors are widely considered the two types of pedestrians most at risk for accidents. Children are often more difficult to spot because of their smaller sizes. Meanwhile, seniors usually have slower reaction times and are less likely to recover from their injuries. Here’s a closer look at some of the risks encountered by our personal injury attorneys working on pedestrian accident cases. 

At-Risk Pedestrians 

Here’s a closer look at the demographics that make up disproportionate numbers of pedestrian crashes or fatalities: 

• Men: According to the NHTSA, men make up 70% of pedestrian deaths despite having similar walking rates as women. 

• Age: People aged 60 to 70 make up 23% of traffic fatalities and is the largest age demographic for pedestrian deaths. Additionally, children under 14 are more challenging to spot and can often behave unpredictably. 

• Race, ethnicity, and national origin: Minorities tend to make up a large proportion of pedestrian deaths. Immigrants, people in low-income areas, Black persons, and American Indians or Alaska Natives are overrepresented in pedestrian accidents. 

• Disabilities: Persons with both physical and mental disabilities might not react as quickly to dangers or hazards. Physical disabilities might also make it more difficult for a person to recover from injuries. 

Walking volume may play a role. While no known studies show that miles walked correlate to the risk of pedestrian accidents, it makes logical sense that risks would increase with greater exposure to road traffic while on foot. 

Factors That Increase Pedestrian Risks 

Regardless of inherent risks, some factors can put any person in greater danger. Here are some of the main factors to be aware of: 

• Urban locations:  The busier the road and the higher the posted speed limits, the greater the risk of pedestrian accidents. 

• Time of Day: The NHTSA estimates that 26% of all pedestrian deaths occur from 9 p.m. to 11:59 p.m., while another 25% occur from 6 p.m. to 8:59 p.m. Finally, 76% of pedestrian fatalities occur after dark. 

• Intoxication: Alcohol and other drugs can impair a person’s judgment, balance, motor skills, and overall ability to react to danger. It can also lead to unsafe and unpredictable behaviors. 

• Distracted walking: In today’s technological world, people are often glued to their phones while walking. Distracted walking can make it harder for pedestrians to notice potential hazards or dangers on the road. 

What to Do After a Pedestrian Accident 

After being hit by a vehicle, you or your loved one might be unresponsive due to severe injuries. If you are conscious, seeking medical attention as soon as possible is essential. Moving when you have severe injuries can sometimes make them worse. However, if the options are between staying in the middle of a busy road or moving to the sidewalk, you might need to weigh the danger of more immediate hazards. 

Your second priority should be seeking legal counsel to hold the negligent person responsible. Our team at CaseyGerry is ready to review your case. Contact us today.