With the glimmer of fall approaching, residents in Oregon and other states across the nation are trying to soak up every last bit of summer. Although it is a time of year where many individuals spend time outdoors to enjoy the weather, the reality is that many people see the outdoors year-round because they primarily get around on foot. Whether one commutes on foot or is simply walking from their parked car to a building, store or residence, pedestrians frequently walk where vehicles are traveling. Thus, it is always imperative that both motorists and pedestrians remain aware of one another, with motorists driving cautiously around pedestrians.
Based on current statistics, the death toll for pedestrian accident hit a 28-year high in 2018. Across the nation, it is estimated that fatal pedestrian crashes rose by 4%, which amounted to 6,227 deaths. Researches explored the cause for this increasing rate, and they believe the nation’s boom in SUVs is one of the leading reasons for the increase.
Looking at data from 2013 through 2017, researchers found that there was an increase in pedestrian deaths caused by SUVs. This increase was roughly 50%. It should also be noted that pedestrian deaths caused by passenger vehicles rose by 30% in this same timeframe. Since hitting a low in 2009, pedestrian deaths are now up 51.5%, making up roughly 16% of all traffic-related deaths. And the rise in SUV sales is indicative of these rates because the larger the vehicle the more likely a pedestrian is to suffer severe or fatal injuries.
The aftermath of a pedestrian accident can be gruesome. In a collision between a person and a vehicle, the vehicle wins every time. The force of the crash and the weight and size of the vehicle can send a pedestrian flying, resulting in injuries to one’s head, neck, limbs, and internal organs. Thus, the injuries can be severe and the damages overwhelming. A personal injury action may be a beneficial step for victims to take. This civil action could help offset the losses caused by a serious pedestrian accident, thereby setting a victim or his or her family up for what is, hopefully, a successful recovery.
