Pedestrian deaths in the United States have gone up more than 50% in the last decade. One of the reasons this is happening is that more people have resorted to driving larger vehicles, which are significantly bigger than they were 10 to 20 years ago. If you live in Ohio, here are some reasons you should be watchful when you see a large vehicle on the road.
1. They have reduced visibility
Large vehicles are built with wider A-pillar for support during a rollover crash. But this comes at a cost. The wider these A-pillars are, the larger the blind spot in a vehicle. This means a driver may not spot you as a pedestrian; thus, they may likely hit you.
2. They have a longer stopping time
The stopping distance of a vehicle is affected by its weight. The heavier the vehicle, the longer it will take to come to a complete stop. A large SUV or truck that’s fully loaded can take up to 20% longer to stop than an empty one. That’s an extra 30 feet when traveling at just 60 mph. This increases the chances of pedestrian accidents even when the driver of the large vehicle spots them.
3. They block your view of oncoming traffic
When you’re walking along the street, and there’s a large vehicle parked next to you, it can be difficult to see oncoming traffic. This is especially true at night when visibility is poorer. It would be best for you if you took a moment to scan the road from all sides before you start crossing.
If you have been hit by a large vehicle, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately. You may have suffered severe injuries that require long-term treatment. You can then sue the responsible driver for damages.
