Cincinnati residents often enjoy walking as a hobby or a less costly method of transportation. Unfortunately, the area’s busy highways and roads within the can increase the chance of a pedestrian accident.
Pedestrians hit by motor vehicles often sustain major injuries, including broken bones, concussions or severe fractures. The injuries can result in high medical bills, lost wages, and mental and emotional anguish.
Speeding and distracted drivers greatly increase the risk of a pedestrian accident. Drunk driving is another major cause of pedestrian accidents. Recent statistics show that almost half of fatal pedestrian accidents involved a driver or pedestrian who had been drinking alcohol.
Staying safe as a pedestrian
There are several things that pedestrians can do to reduce the possibility of being involved in a collision with a motor vehicle. The reality is that pedestrians will sometimes have alcohol in their system, and walking is a better option after drinking than driving.
Pedestrians who have been drinking should stay off their phones and not use headphones or earbuds when walking with alcohol in their system. This will reduce the likelihood of distractions. Wearing reflective clothing or carrying a light when walking at night increase visibility to drivers, also reducing the chance of an accident.
Walking on the road is not recommended unless necessary. If there is a sidewalk or other route available for walking, those should be used over a road. Finally, pedestrians should obey all traffic laws, crossing streets only when legally allowed and staying within crosswalks.
Even pedestrians taking all safety precautions can find themselves the victim of a pedestrian accident from negligent drivers. Health and safety are the main priority after an accident. After that, it is a good idea to speak with a personal injury attorney about potential compensation.