Coming in the first place is not always a good thing. Unfortunately, a recent study ranked California as the number one state in the U.S. for pedestrian deaths.
According to an article from SFGATE, pedestrian deaths are at an all-time high nationwide. While California actually saw a decrease in fatal pedestrian accidents during the first half of 2016, the state still maintained the number one position, in large part because of its size.
What Is The Cause Of Pedestrian Fatalities?
Not surprisingly, one of the experts behind the study attributed the increase in pedestrian fatalities to the proliferation of cellphones and the rise of distracted driving. Simply put, more people are not paying attention when they drive.
The report also cited the thriving economy as part of the issue. People have more money and can afford more vacations, which means more cars and pedestrians on the road. The greater number of drivers and pedestrians translates to a greater number of crashes.
What Can Be Done To Stop This?
The Governors Highway Safety Association, the organization responsible for the study, has recommended the creation of safety islands, pedestrian bridges and other structures to keep pedestrians safe. Meanwhile, major metropolitan areas are introducing a variety of pedestrian safety initiatives. For example, Vision Zero SF has been launched in San Francisco. Furthermore, efforts need to be made to stop distracted driving and speeding.
Pedestrians who have been hit by negligent drivers may not have to deal with medical bills and other costs on their own. They may be able to seek compensation with the help of an experienced personal injury attorney.
