Over the past few years, the statistics concerning fatal pedestrian auto accidents in Ohio and throughout the rest of the state, have been alarming. For example, while 25 pedestrians were killed between January and June of 2014, 56 pedestrians were killed between January and June of 2015. That’s an increase of more than 120%.While these statistics only show the pedestrian deaths from the first half of each year, there are further statistical evidences that show the problem much more clearly. We’ll take a deeper look at these statistics along with the causes of fatal pedestrian auto accidents and how to prevent them, today.
A Deeper Look at Fatal Pedestrian Auto Accident Statistics in the State of Ohio
While Ohio is one of the safer states to drive in, it is one of the more dangerous states to be a pedestrian in. This was shown in statistics from 2012, where Ohio had the highest number of pedestrian deaths over the previous five years. We have also had the highest increase in pedestrian deaths between then and now. Specifically, 99 fatal pedestrian auto accidents occurred in Ohio in 2011. Then, 2012 saw 117 fatal pedestrian accidents. The numbers went down in 2013 (88) and 2014 (93), but soared to 118 again in 2015. The statistics from 2016 were even more shocking, with 140 total pedestrian deaths. The situation, of course, is not unique to Ohio, just because we’re leading in pedestrian deaths and the rate here is continuously increasing. Throughout the United States, there were more than 2,300 fatal pedestrian auto accidents in the first half of 2015 alone. However, while the US fatal pedestrian auto accidents increased by 10% that year, Ohio fatal pedestrian auto accidents increased by 120%. As we make our way through 2017, we hope to confront these statistics and bring those numbers back down again. We’ll do this by looking at the causes and how to make a change.
Most Frequent Causes of Fatal Pedestrian Auto Accidents in Cincinnati
There are multiple causes of fatal pedestrian auto accidents in Cincinnati, Ohio, and throughout the state and the country. Following are some of the most common causes of pedestrian accidents:
- Low Visibility
- Poorly Lit Streets
- Weather Conditions
- Distracted Driving
- Distracted Pedestrians
- Drowsy Driving
- Drunk Driving
- More Traffic (cheaper fuel, less unemployment)
Poorly lit streets and weather conditions can limit visibility. However, the clothing of the pedestrian could also be too dark to be highly visible, and even the driver’s own eyesight could be a problem. Weather conditions can also cause a driver to lose control of their vehicle, sliding or hydroplaning. When it comes to distractions on the part of drivers and pedestrians, the increased use of electronic devices is a major factor on both sides. Consider the recently popular game, Pokémon Go, for example. Then there are those who are texting or even just using a navigation system. Drowsy driving is a danger that not enough people are aware of, but it is just as hazardous as drunk driving. Then, you have the increase in traffic. This is attributed to the improved economy. There are more people working, more people traveling, lower fuel costs, etc. to lead more drivers to be on the road at any given time. Traffic actually increased by 3.5% between 2014 and 2015, alone.
These factors have contributed to the rise in pedestrian auto accidents. The reason that so many of these auto accidents result in the death of the pedestrian, however, is the simple fact that pedestrians are not protected by the walls of a vehicle. When struck by a car, pedestrians are often thrown great distances and end up with serious injuries from impacting the road. They may also be crushed or killed through blood loss or brain death. Those who survive such incidents are often left with serious disabilities and tremendous medical needs.
What Can Be Done to Reduce the Number of Fatal Pedestrian Auto Accidents?
While the situation is currently overwhelming and frustrating, there is much that can be done to reduce the number of fatal pedestrian auto accidents in 2017 and beyond. For example, drivers can work to improve their driving habits, avoid distracted driving, avoid drowsy driving, and refuse to drive drunk. Pedestrians can wear brighter clothing when visibility is an issue, and also avoid distractions on Ohio roads. The Governors Highway Safety Association is also recommending improvements by increasing street lighting at night, making crosswalks more visible, and using speed bumps to slow cars in areas with high pedestrian traffic. There are even suggestions to add curb extensions and refuge islands to give pedestrians more room to safely navigate the roads of Cincinnati, Ohio. The ultimate goal here is to put more space between automobile traffic and pedestrian traffic, while also minimizing the speed of drivers who may be going too fast to prevent these tragic events.
Beyond this, it is important for all pedestrians to make a point of being hyper vigilant in evaluating their surroundings. Never assume that it is safe to walk because you have the right of way. Always double check. You may have been right, but that won’t help if you are harmed by the driver who was wrong. Never walk from one place to another while focusing more on your phone than the traffic around you. Always wear visible clothing and follow the rules of the road.
Were You or a Loved One Harmed in a Cincinnati, Ohio, Pedestrian Auto Accident?
If you or a loved one has been harmed in a Cincinnati pedestrian auto accident, contact the Ohio Car Accident Lawyers to schedule a free consultation. Our determined car accident lawyer in Cincinnati, OH will handle your case with the compassion and expertise that it requires and fight for fair compensation for your losses. We work on a contingency fee basis, so that we only get paid if we are successful in your case. Call today to learn more.
