Pedestrian Accidents are Slowly Decreasing in Metropolitan Areas

Many people view walking as a healthy resource of getting from point A to point B, but in the midst of busy highways and high trafficked areas, these walkers could be putting their life at a greater risk by trying to be healthier and save on commutes.

Top 10 Dangerous Metropolitan Areas for Pedestrians

A report titled “Dangerous By Design: Solving the Epidemic of Preventable Pedestrian Deaths (and Making Great Neighborhoods)” ranked the top most dangerous areas for pedestrians to walk in, all of which were metropolitan areas. Florida holds the top four spots in the top 10. The report states that the top areas that are considered to be the most dangerous metropolitan areas for pedestrians are Miami, Orlando, Jacksonville, and Tampa, FL; Louisville, KY; Atlanta, GA; Birmingham, AL; Raleigh, NC; Houston, TX; and Memphis, TN.

Most Common Types of Accidents for Pedestrians

Although there are many accidents that can occur throughout the world, the most common type that involves pedestrians are auto accidents. This can happen out of negligence from either the driver of the automobile or the walker from not watching where they were walking or what they were doing at the time of the accident. Bicycles account for a few of these pedestrian accidents. Most accidents that involve a pedestrian can result in serious injuries and even death. When a driver is distracted or misjudges the distance between their vehicle and the pedestrian or bike rider, accidents happen.

How Pedestrians are Being Protected

Metropolitan areas are increasing the amount of walk ways and paths for pedestrians to use as they travel across the area. These areas are also implementing roundabouts to help slow the speed of traffic. A program titled Safe Routes to School is expanding their working areas to include areas that are high risk for bicycle and pedestrian accidents. Road reconfigurations have been underway in the past few years to help with creating a safe walkway for pedestrians. These configurations have been noted as calming traffic techniques. They include roundabouts, pedestrian barriers, and more accessibility to walkways from street to street.

Even though it is the driver’s responsibility to seek out pedestrians and avoid them at all costs, pedestrians still have the responsibility of walking safely. In daylight, wearing bright colors can help a motorist spot you while walking over a crosswalk. At night, wearing reflective clothing or a reflective jacket can prevent accidents.