The Governor’s Highway Safety Association (GHSA) recently released a report linking an increase in pedestrian deaths to the increase in SUVs on the roads across the U.S. Shockingly, 2018 had a record high amount of pedestrian deaths since 1990. The report has sparked an outcry from many to increase the safety of SUVs. History repeats itself. Maybe the real solution is an invention created years ago known as the pedestrian airbag. Pedestrian airbags deploy when the bumper hits an object going over 20 miles per hour. Read more.
How Does an Increase in SUVs on the Road Connect to Pedestrian Deaths?
The U.S. and Europe are recently experiencing an increase in the buying of SUVs. As a result, there has also been an increase in the number of pedestrian accidents. The main correlation is that SUVs are twice more likely to kill a pedestrian than an average four-door sedan. The size of SUVs becomes a huge factor because SUVs are more likely to roll over leading to increased injuries and death.
What Are the Best Ways to Prevent a Pedestrian Accident?
As a pedestrian, it is really safest to never walk at night when visibility is low but sometimes life gets in the way and you need to get somewhere. Most pedestrian accidents occur between the hours of 6 p.m. and 9 p.m. If you have to walk somewhere as the sun goes down, you want to ensure cars can see you properly by wearing bright colors or even reflectors on your clothing. That way even if the driver cannot see your figure, they will recognize the bright colors and flashing lights and swerve out of the way.
It is also especially important to be constantly aware of your surroundings. Many people like to walk with headphones in but that prevents the use of one out of the five sense that you need to keep alert when walking as a pedestrian. While we wait for the SUV industry to catch up on safety, it is important that you do everything you can do reduce the risk as a driver and a pedestrian.
Contact an Experienced Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Today!
If you or a loved one has been injured as a result of a pedestrian accident, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering, among other losses. You should contact an experienced RI pedestrian accident lawyer today. We have been focusing on personal injury and disability cases for over 20 years and know how to deal with the insurance company. Just call us today toll-free 24/7 at 1-800-992-6878 or fill out an online contact form for a free (no obligation) case evaluation.
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Paul d’Oliveira
Attorney Paul d’Oliveira has been practicing personal injury and disability law for over 30 years. He started his personal injury law practice in 1989 with two offices in Fall River, MA and East Providence, RI. Today his firm has 16 offices in RI and Southeastern, MA.
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