When vehicles and pedestrians share space on or alongside the road, there is always a possibility for unfortunate accidents to occur. Certain areas present factors that further increase the risk that a car might hit a pedestrian.
The National Safety Council reports an estimated 7,904 pedestrian deaths in vehicle accidents for the year 2020. This indicates a societal need to improve conditions for pedestrians, but you can keep yourself safer in the meantime by practicing heightened awareness in key areas where pedestrians are at greater risk to experience a car accident.
Highways
The Georgia Pedestrian Safety Action Plan includes findings that many road-based vehicle-pedestrian accidents occur where the posted speed limit is 40 MPH or higher. Highways, where cars travel at increased speeds, can be especially dangerous for pedestrians, particularly when there is little or no walking infrastructure on the roadside.
Parking lots
More than anywhere else, parking lots are spaces where moving vehicles and pedestrians intermingle. The likelihood of an accident increases when pedestrians suddenly emerge from between parked cars which obstruct a driver’s view.
Residential neighborhoods
Even in dense urban areas, residential neighborhoods tend to be places where children and families feel safe crossing the street with barely a glance in either direction. Hedges, fences and vehicles parked on the curb can make it difficult for incoming drivers to notice or react to a crossing pedestrian in a safe amount of time.
Pedestrians and motorists are all responsible for adhering to safe practices on and near Georgia roads. If you experience an accident due to the negligent actions of another party, you have the right to pursue the financial compensation you deserve.