A program set up in 2005 to increase pedestrian safety for children walking to or from school has shown to be successful, according to a Health Day article. Some of the changes made to streets near schools included digital signs alerting drivers of their speed, installation of islands in the center of wide streets, speed bumps and traffic lights.
Researchers indicate that the “National Safe Routes to School” program has resulted in safer walking conditions for children. As a result, the number of injuries that occur during the hours of traveling to and from school has decreased by as much as 44 percent.
The results of the program even have some experts, according to the article, pointing out that the initiative has showed it’s possible to get more kids walking to improve health and reduce obesity while still keeping them safe.
Facts about Pedestrian Safety from the CDC
Children are not the only ones at risk of being injured in pedestrian accidents. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) note that older adults also are at risk of pedestrian accidents, accounting for 18 percent of all pedestrian deaths in 2008.
What’s more, pedestrians as well as drivers who are impaired increase the chance of an accident. Another factor that contributes to pedestrians being hit is vehicles traveling at a high rate of speed. Of course, this also increases the risk that any resulting injuries are severe or fatal.
The CDC reports that most fatal pedestrian accidents occur at night compared to day, in urban areas compared to rural areas, and non-intersection locations compared to intersection locations.
Contacting a Long Island Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
While new initiatives have helped to reduce pedestrian accidents involving children around schools, pedestrian accidents are not a thing of the past. The New York State Department of Motor Vehicles reports that in 2010 there were 311 pedestrians killed. Additionally, 16,090 pedestrians were injured.
Contact a lawyer at Gacovino, Lake & Associates at (800) 246-4878 to go over your case and discuss filing a claim. Our law firm will review your case to determine liability and the possibility of compensation after a pedestrian accident.
