The Schafer Law Office

Pedestrian Fatalities and Injuries

Last week I put an article on my website entitled “New Auto Designs May Help Reduce Pedestrian Injuries and Fatalities”.  In this article I outlined some information released in a report by National Highway Transportation Safety Administration.  In this report there is some good news in  trends as related to pedestrian fatality and pedestrian injuries involving motor vehicles.  Since 1997 number of pedestrian fatalities has declined.  Included in this report are several interesting findings.

•    More than 60% of pedestrian fatalities occurred in urban areas where the number of pedestrian traffic is higher. 
•    January 1st and October 31st are the two days of the year with the highest incidences of pedestrian fatalities.
•    Males are more likely to be killed in a crash than females.
•    People in the older age group (over 64 years old) are more likely to be killed than any other age group.
•    Pedestrians are more likely to be killed in dark conditions than in light conditions.
•    Fall is the deadliest season for pedestrians.
•    Between the hours of 6 p.m. and 9 p.m. the number of pedestrian fatality is higher than any other time period.
•    The majority of drivers in pedestrian fatal accidents were males between the ages of 21 and 25 who were not speeding or drinking.

Since it is getting darker earlier pedestrians will be less visible so as a motorist it is important to be diligent in being aware of your surroundings.  As a pedestrian be aware that cars may not see you and check twice before crossing the road and several times as you cross the road.  Being struck by a car can lead to injuries that can effect you for the rest of your life.   Losing a loved one to a pedestrian fatality can haunt you as well.  Be safe as a motorist and a pedestrian.  For more information on Louisville, Kentucky personal injury attorney Mike Schafer go to www.mikeschaferlaw.com.