Pedestrians may feel concerned about their safety when crossing at a busy Minnesota intersection or walking on the shoulder of a highway. Such concerns are well-founded as pedestrian accidents may leave a victim suffering from severe injuries. Some might take solace from a report suggesting pedestrian accident statistics reveal fewer incidents. However, dangers remain.
Pedestrian accident notes
Data compiled by the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA) reveals decreased U.S. pedestrian fatalities. Per the data, the first six months of 2023 saw a 4% decline in pedestrian deaths. While the figure reveals positive news, the number of fatalities is more than 2019 levels, and 2022’s death figures hit a 40-year high. Ultimately, the annual number of pedestrian fatalities remains concerning.
The GHSA reveals that 3,373 pedestrians died in auto accident-related events in 2023. Such figures could make some pedestrians more alert to traffic when out and about, but there could be situations where avoiding an accident proves impossible because of someone else’s recklessness.
Pedestrian accidents and negligence
Pedestrians could take many steps to increase their safety, such as not tuning out traffic when wearing headsets while jogging or avoiding roads with poor lighting. Still, like a defensive driver, a safety-conscious pedestrian may become the victim of a reckless driver. Numerous motor vehicle accidents result from negligence; a pedestrian could lose their life if a careless driver takes to the road.
Drivers who go through red lights at intersections, speed, operate vehicles while intoxicated or are distracted behind the wheel could cause accidents that inflict catastrophic injuries or cause fatalities. Victims may file lawsuits to recover their losses. An auto liability policy settlement might cover the losses, although suing beyond policy limits could be an option.