Pedestrian Accidents Increase Around the Holidays

As the holiday season approaches, so does the mad rush of shoppers and potential for pedestrian accidents in Lake Charles. It is easy to get distracted while trying to cross off your to-do list. But during this time, it has never been more important to stay alert, paying particular attention to your surroundings. The goal is to return safely and peacefully home to your loved ones.

In the U.S., Pedestrian fatalities have increased 41 percent since 2008 and account for 16 percent of all traffic fatalities. According to the Governors Highway Safety Association, Louisiana made the top 10 list of highest pedestrian deaths per capita. 

Unfortunately, our malls and shopping centers can be dangerous for pedestrians. Both drivers and pedestrians are likely to be distracted by their to-do lists while racing from one place to another.  

While cars traveling in parking lots tend to do so at lower speeds, a pedestrian accident is still dangerous. Distracted driving poses the most significant threat to pedestrians. Using cell phones (taking photos, texting, and talking), programming GPS, searching for a parking spot, failing to look before backing up, and adjusting seats or mirrors are the most common culprits. 

Many accidents can be avoided if drivers and pedestrians exercise extra caution and follow a few simple rules while shopping this holiday.  We have provided a few tips to guide you below. ​

Pedestrian safety tips

While you may not be in control of the behavior of those around you, there are steps you can take to protect yourself and those traveling with you. 

• Use and stay inside crosswalks
• Always look and listen for vehicles, stay alert
• Remember that vehicles have blind spots, especially tall vehicles
• Do not zig zag through parked cars, travel in the main aisles of the parking lot
• Travel in well-lit areas at night
• Don't engage in distracted walking; give your full attention to walking to your vehicle 

Driver safety tips

Drivers, your responsibility is to yield to pedestrians and obey traffic laws. 

• Always drive the posted speed limit or lower (usually 10mph)
• When possible, park so that you can drive forward out of the parking space. Avoid the necessity of backing out
• Look around multiple times before backing up, do not rely solely on rear camera systems
• Parking garages tend to have tight corners, low ceilings, and dimmer lighting. extra caution should be exercised
• Program your GPS and take care of text and calls before starting your car

Pedestrian accidents range from minor to catastrophic, however, due to lack of protection too many of these accidents end in fatalities. If you've been injured by a distracted driver, consider calling our pedestrian accident attorneys in Lake Charles, LA at (337) 439-0707 for a complimentary consultation on seeking compensation. ​

TAGS: 

Distracted Driving Attorneys, Pedestrian Accident Attorneys, Wrongful Death Attorneys - Lake Charles, LA