Every 8 minutes, there’s a pedestrian accident. Personal injury is reported in over 69,000 cases per year. Persons 65 and older account for 18% of accident-related deaths and 10% of injuries. The sad truth is if you are a pedestrian, you are 1.5 times more likely to die in a motor vehicle accident than the occupants of the car that hits you.
While startling, the statistics also clarify something: the older you are the more likely you are to be involved in a pedestrian accident. Personal injury is a very real and likely result. For this reason, prevention and preparation are your best defense against injury. This article will outline why these accidents occur and what you can do in the aftermath to protect yourself and your loved ones.
Why Are Older People More at Risk for Pedestrian Accidents?
Many of us take our driver’s license for granted. It’s not until you reach the age of 70 that you are considered an elderly driver by the state of Texas.
The licensing requirements in the state of Texas are some of the strictest in the country. For instance, between the ages of 74 and 85 you are required to renew your license every six years. After the age of 85, renewal is required every two years. This includes a written and visual exam.
While there are some special age-related exceptions; as you can imagine, these requirements result in many drivers hanging up their keys as they get older. You may not realize it, but there is a direct correlation between the loss of independence and pedestrian accident personal injury cases.
The fact that many elderly motorists can no longer drive leaves them dependent on third-party transportation options. When those options don’t give them the independence they desire, they will typically find solutions within walking distance. This increases the risk of injury not only from passing cars, but also from falls while walking from place to place. Self-awareness and the assistance of others are your two biggest preventative measures against personal injury among the elderly.
How Can I Potentially Prevent a Pedestrian Accident?
Of course, sometimes even taking preventative measures isn’t enough. Your risk may decrease with prevention in mind, but because a pedestrian accident personal injury case involves another driver, it can never be fully eliminated.
In fact, according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), 48% of accidents involving pedestrians were alcohol-related. In 36% of those cases, the driver was above the legal limit while operating the vehicle. This statistic proves that there are some variables you can’t plan for.
Regardless of the outcome, please continue to:
- Use caution when crossing intersections; especially if the driver fails to yield.
- Always use the crosswalk and wear reflective clothing at night.
In the event that a pedestrian accident affects you or someone you care about, contact Stockard, Johnston, Brown, Netardus & Doyle, P.C. in Amarillo, Texas for more information on your rights and the merits of your personal injury case. These reputable, dedicated attorneys here are fully equipped to handle your personal injury accident and support you throughout your case.