Wet, Fall Weather Means Dangerous Conditions
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), California, Florida and Texas have more pedestrian deaths than any other states, and Los Angeles ranks in the top five cities with the most pedestrian deaths as a proportion of total pedestrian fatalities. The NHTSA reports that the most deadly season for pedestrian fatalities is autumn, with the most deaths occurring in October, November and December. Pedestrian accidents mostly occur between 6:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, when poor lighting conditions are a known factor.
Male Drivers Proven to Be Higher Risk
Males account for seventy percent of pedestrian victims, and the majority of drivers involved in pedestrian crashes are also young men between the ages of twenty-one and twenty-five years old. These figures correlate with the statistics showing that male drivers are more likely to speed or drive while intoxicated, and that male pedestrians are more likely to be under the influence of alcohol than female pedestrians. However, in recent years the majority of fatal pedestrian crashes do not involve alcohol or speeding. Instead, distracted driving is becoming more prevalent, with nearly twenty percent of Southern California drivers admitting to texting on their cell phones “regularly” while driving. Younger drivers are especially likely to operate their cell phones while driving, with the rate doubling last year in drivers aged sixteen to twenty-five.
Awareness is Key
While car manufacturers work hard to design safer vehicles to protect their occupants, pedestrians grow more and more vulnerable on Los Angeles’ busy streets. Awareness is key, both on the part of drivers and pedestrians. If you or someone you know has been injured or killed because of a driver’s lack of awareness, it is crucial that you speak with an experienced personal injury lawyer who is familiar with California’s traffic laws and who will fight to get you the best possible results. The Boesch Law Group has successfully represented both plaintiffs and defendants in difficult accident cases involving multiple parties, causation issues, catastrophic injuries, and complex insurance questions. To speak to a Los Angeles-based personal injury attorney who can help guide you through the legal process, please contact us today at (310) 578-7880.
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