As the sun shines brightly and the temperatures rise, people are drawn outdoors to enjoy the summer months. along with the joys of the season, there may also be an increased risk of pedestrian accidents. It is important to understand the possible causes of a pedestrian accident to do your best to keep you and your loved ones safe this summer.
Increased Pedestrian Activity:
Summer brings a surge in pedestrian activity as people embark on leisurely walks, engage in outdoor recreational activities, or simply spend more time outside. The greater number of pedestrians on the streets and sidewalks can elevate the risk of accidents, especially in heavily populated areas or near popular attractions, parks, or shopping centers.
Driver Distractions:
Summertime often coincides with vacations and road trips, leading to increased traffic. With more vehicles on the road, there is a higher likelihood of driver distractions, such as phone usage, GPS navigation, or conversations with passengers. These distractions can divert drivers’ attention from pedestrians, resulting in an increased risk of accidents.
Impaired Driving:
The summer season is known for social gatherings, parties, and celebrations where alcohol consumption may be prevalent. Unfortunately, some individuals make the dangerous decision to drive under the influence. Alcohol impairs judgment, reaction time, and coordination, making drivers more prone to accidents involving pedestrians.
Tourist Areas and Events:
Many popular tourist destinations experience a surge in visitors during the summer months. These areas may have unfamiliar traffic patterns, congested streets, and distracted drivers. Additionally, summer brings a host of events and festivals, which can draw large crowds. In these busy settings, pedestrians may be at a higher risk of accidents due to the increased traffic and potentially negligent driving behaviors.
Visibility Challenges:
With longer daylight hours, people often spend more time outdoors, including during the evenings. However, reduced visibility at dusk or during nighttime can increase the likelihood of pedestrian accidents, particularly if pedestrians are not wearing reflective clothing or if drivers fail to use proper lighting. Factors like glare from the sun, shadows, or poorly lit areas can further impede visibility. According to the National Center for Statistics and Analysis’ 2020 Pedestrian report, During the summer months June to August, more pedestrian fatalities occurred from 9 to 11:59 p.m. (36%) than any other time, followed by 16 percent from midnight to 2:59 a.m.
Outdoor Recreational Activities:
The summer season encourages participation in outdoor activities such as cycling, jogging, or skateboarding. While these activities promote a healthy lifestyle, they also pose risks when pedestrians share the roads with vehicles. Lack of awareness, failure to obey traffic rules, or inadequate protective gear can contribute to accidents involving pedestrians.
What To Do If You Are In A Pedestrian Accident
While it is challenging to pinpoint an exact increase in pedestrian accidents during the summer, various factors indicate a heightened risk.If you, or someone you love, is injured in a pedestrian accident ensure you are taken care of by an experienced injury attorney. You deserve compensation from injuries and emotional trauma endured. Let us prioritize awareness, caution, and respect on the roads, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the warm weather while minimizing the occurrence of pedestrian accidents.