Phoenix’s High Pedestrian Accident Rate
Two unnamed pedestrians who were struck by a vehicle while walking after dark in Phoenix have been hospitalized and are reported to be in stable condition. The incident took place on Black Canyon near I-17, and it is unknown whether the driver of the vehicle will be facing charges related to the collision. Although these individuals were alleged to have been medically stabilized after getting treatment, not every pedestrian involved in a crash is so lucky—and Phoenix may be one of the deadliest places for a pedestrian to walk. According to data published by the Governors Highway Safety Association, Arizona ranked 4th out of all 50 states for pedestrian-involved accident deaths.
The risks of being a pedestrian
Walking carries a range of potential health benefits, from vascular health to mood improvement. However, there are many risks to being a pedestrian in a world largely overrun with people in vehicles. Being a pedestrian means being less visible to car and truck drivers, especially at night or in other conditions when visibility is low. It also means being very vulnerable in case a collision does occur—after all, a pedestrian does not have an armored shell surrounding them the way a motor vehicle such as a car does. Pedestrians can do little damage if involved in a collision, but their very lives can be gone in the blink of an eye if a fast-moving vehicle strikes them while they are walking.
Safety precautions to take as a pedestrian in Phoenix
It’s important to keep safety and caution in mind when you are a pedestrian. Here are some precautions you can take to help ensure your walk is a safe one:
- Be aware of your surroundings
- Carry a flashlight if walking at night to be more visible
- Look twice before crossing roads
- Cross roads at marked crosswalks
- Avoid using earbuds while walking—it interferes with awareness
What to do if you have been injured in a pedestrian accident
The first thing anyone injured in an accident needs to do is get medical treatment. Even if you believe you are okay or that your injuries can be treated at home, it is important to get a medical evaluation from a trained professional, as some injuries can be insidious and may not cause any pain immediately. It is also important to document everything related to your injuries in case you decide to pursue legal action in court. Finally, contact a lawyer who specializes in cases like yours to discuss the merits of your case and what kind of outcome you could expect if you took your case to court.
We can help you with your court case
If you were a pedestrian involved in an accident and you suffered injuries, a pedestrian accident attorney in Phoenix is available to help. At Lorona Mead Attorneys at Law, we specialize in tackling pedestrian accident cases and will fight for you inside the courtroom so you can get the justice you deserve. We offer no-cost case evaluations and will push to get you the monetary compensation you are entitled to as an accident victim. You do not have to suffer in silence—call today to find out more about how we can help you with your legal case.
