According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, as of 2010, over half of all pedestrian deaths have occurred between 3 p.m. and midnight. Of these, about 4 out of 10 occurred on weekends. However, most accidents, including non-fatal accidents, reached a peak during lunchtime and the afternoon, when traffic is increased.
A recent and tragic story fits this trend. In Northeast Austin, a teen was killed late at night while crossing Ed Bluestein Boulevard. This young man’s death was mentioned as the 47th traffic accident fatality of the year.
Is Walking Dangerous?
Pedestrians are only about 11 percent of traffic, but they make up 14 percent of traffic fatalities, according to a 2005 study in in the Journal of American Medical Association (JAMA). This means that pedestrian deaths are overrepresented compared to other traffic fatalities.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) named Texas the state with the third highest rate of pedestrian accidents. The accidents happen largely in urban areas. As such, the citizens of Austin need to be particularly careful when driving or walking, because our city is one of the fastest growing cities in the country.
The NHTSA also reports that pedestrian fatalities generally happen to people in the 45-64 year age group. Additionally, one out of every five pedestrian fatalities involves a hit and run driver.
Need a Pedestrian Accident Attorney?
Walking can be both healthy and meditative, but accidents can occur. If you have been injured while walking, then call an Austin-area attorney that is experienced in personal injury cases.
The Law Offices of Aaron Allison – Austin Personal Injury Attorney
Source: https://www.kxan.com/news/local/austin/pedestrian-hit-and-killed-in-south-austin/1338636349
