Walking is a common and healthy way to get around. However, pedestrians are vulnerable road users, and accidents involving them can lead to serious injuries or even fatalities.
It is important for drivers and pedestrians to understand the common risks pedestrians face and the types of injuries they may sustain in accidents.
Risk factors
Pedestrian accident risks can arise from various factors, including distracted driving, speeding, failing to yield, poor visibility and driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Distracted driving, such as texting or talking on the phone while driving, can lead to drivers not paying attention to pedestrians crossing the road. Speeding reduces the driver’s reaction time and increases the severity of injuries in case of a collision with a pedestrian. Failing to yield to pedestrians at crosswalks or intersections is another common cause of accidents.
According to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, over 67,000 pedestrians suffered injuries in traffic accidents during 2022.
Injuries
When a pedestrian is involved in an accident with a vehicle, the injuries can range from minor cuts and bruises to severe, life-threatening injuries. Some of the common injuries sustained by pedestrians in accidents include broken bones, such as fractures in the arms, legs, hips or ribs due to the impact of a vehicle. Head injuries can range from concussions to traumatic brain injuries and can have long-lasting effects on the victim’s cognitive and physical abilities. Pedestrians may experience sprains, strains or tears in muscles, ligaments and tendons due to the force of the impact. In severe accidents, pedestrians may sustain internal injuries to organs such as the liver, spleen or kidneys, which can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.
Being involved in a pedestrian accident can also lead to emotional distress, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder in some cases. To reduce the risk of pedestrian accidents and injuries, both pedestrians and drivers need to take precautions and follow safety guidelines. Drivers should always be alert, follow speed limits, yield to pedestrians and avoid distractions while driving. All road users should work together to create safer environments for pedestrians and reduce the number of accidents. Remember, safety is everyone’s responsibility.
