Motor vehicle accidents involving pedestrians result in some most severe injuries. Throughout the U.S., more than 7,000 pedestrians die annually in accidents involving motor vehicles. While Ohio takes steps to reduce these accidents, you may help by remaining informed about them.
Causes of pedestrian accidents
Motor vehicle accidents involving pedestrians primarily occur because of driver error. Some of the most common causes of pedestrian accidents include:
- Distracted driving
- Fatigued driving
- Not obeying intersection laws
- Driving under the influence
- Speeding
- Failure to yield
- Inclement weather
Cleveland’s plans to reduce accidents
In 2022, car drivers hit more than 130 pedestrians in Cleveland. To reduce these deaths, Cleveland plans on installing several High-Intensity Activated Crosswalks (HAWK) throughout the city to reduce the number of pedestrian accidents. HAWK signals allow pedestrians to press a button signaling for traffic to stop.
Pedestrians can also help reduce accidents by wearing reflective clothing at night, crossing only in well-lit areas and sticking to sidewalks.
Common pedestrian accident injuries
While many pedestrian accidents result in death, some individuals escape with injuries. Unfortunately, many of these injuries result in serious medical bills and a prolonged recovery.
The most common injuries following a pedestrian accident include:
- Broken bones
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal injuries
- Internal bleeding
Pedestrian definition
When you think of a pedestrian, you may only consider people who walk on their feet. However, the law considers people using mobility aides, such as wheelchairs or scooters as pedestrians too. Although the law differs in other states, Ohio does not categorize people using skateboards or roller skates as pedestrians.
As a pedestrian, always try to avoid traffic safety laws to prevent an accident. Even if you have the right-of-way, you are responsible for your own well-being.
