As a pedestrian, you must remain alert whenever moving vehicles are nearby. Whether you walk through a parking lot, alongside a seemingly quiet road or across a busy street, you could become seriously hurt if a vehicle hits you. It is crucial to recognize the risk factors that you face, whether you walk near traffic in urban or rural areas.
Research shows that many pedestrians lose their lives in urban and rural locations. It is essential for pedestrians and drivers to analyze this information in order to understand the scope of this problem and prioritize prevention.
Pedestrian accidents in urban locations
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says that 6,516 pedestrians died in traffic accidents over the course of 2020. Among these fatalities, 80% occurred in urban locations (more than 5,200 deaths). In an urban environment, pedestrians face many risks. For example, traffic can become chaotic and some drivers could become aggressive due to road rage.
Dangerous intersections, speeding drivers and poor road design contribute to many accidents that lead to the loss of life and devastating injuries.
Pedestrian accidents in rural locations
Although most pedestrian fatalities occur in cities, pedestrians must remain vigilant while walking in rural areas as well. In fact, 18% of pedestrian deaths in 2020 took place on rural roads, resulting in the loss of 1,160 lives. Sometimes, pedestrians have a false sense of security while walking in rural areas due to less traffic. However, rural roads can prove dangerous due to a lack of sidewalks or a reckless driver speeding around a sharp turn.
Whether you suffered an injury as a pedestrian in a rural or urban area, you have the right to hold the driver answerable if his or her negligence caused the accident.
