Pedestrians in Connecticut and throughout the nation have always been vulnerable to injuries and death if they are hit by a motor vehicle. The number of vehicles on the road and the lack of protection that pedestrians have are factors in the damage that can be done. However, the prevalence of texting and driving and other distractions has increased the danger and number of accidents between a vehicle and a pedestrian.
Pedestrian deaths in Connecticut rose over the first half of 2016, even as attempts have been made to educate drivers on the risks of driving while distracted. There were 28 pedestrian deaths in 2016 over the first six months of the year.
This is an increase from 21 over the same time-period in 2015. This data comes from the Governors Highway Safety Administration (GHSA). Across the country, national, state and local governments are trying to emphasize the jeopardy pedestrians are placed in because of distracted drivers.
Law enforcement in Connecticut is trying to tamp down on the number of people who are driving while distracted by issuing citations and through campaigns explaining the dangers. Other states have experienced a greater rise in the number of pedestrians who died in a car accident indicating that the problem is a national epidemic. It is believed that there will be a 11 percent increase in pedestrian deaths in 2016 compared to the year before.
Pedestrians might be under the impression that leaving the car at home accords them greater safety, helps them save money and is a smart way to get exercise. These are all true. But, the number of drivers who are choosing to get behind the wheel and text or use their smartphones, while simultaneously operating a car is increasing. It is believed there is a direct connection between the two issues.
When a car hits a person, there will be medical expenses, the potential for permanent damage and even death. Those who have been affected by a car wreck as a pedestrian or have lost a loved one must be aware of the alternatives to seek compensation with help from a qualified legal professional.
Source: thehour.com, “Pedestrian deaths up in Connecticut, nationwide,” Robert Koch, April 9, 2017
