Pedestrian Accident Injury Statistics

Item: Steven M. Sweat, Personal Injury Lawyers, APC
Rating: 5
Author: Josie A.

Woman Driving Each year, many pedestrians in Los Angeles and throughout California and the U.S. are seriously injured or killed when they are struck by motor vehicles. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, or NHTSA, reports that 4,735 pedestrians were killed in U.S. traffic accidents in 2013 alone. An additional 150,000 pedestrians were injured and sought treatment during that year. There are many factors that play into pedestrian accidents, including the age of the pedestrian, the lighting, the location of the pedestrian, alcohol use and driver inattention, among others. (NOTE: If you need legal help with an auto v. pedestrian incident where someone was injured or killed in Los Angeles or anywhere in California visit our webpage).

Pedestrian Accident Statistics in the U.S. and California

The 4,735 pedestrian fatalities in 2013 resulted from a total of 4,653 crashes, some of which caused the deaths of more than one pedestrian. The number of pedestrian fatalities for the year represented 14 percent of all traffic fatalities that occurred. Out of all of the states, California had the highest number of pedestrian deaths in 2013 with a total of 701 people killed. This represented 23.4 percent of all traffic fatalities occurring in the state for the year. According to the California Office of Traffic Safety, 841 pedestrians in Orange County were injured or killed during that year.

Factors Involved in Pedestrian Accidents

There are a number of different factors that can lead to pedestrian accidents. The NHTSA data shows that 73 percent of pedestrian accidents happen in urban areas, and 69 percent happened at non-intersections. During the year, Los Angeles had a total of 227 traffic deaths, and 76 of those who were killed in the city were pedestrians. Most accidents occurred in low-light conditions, with 72 percent happening at night. The highest number of pedestrian accidents occurred between 6 and 9 p.m. with the second highest percentage happening between 9 p.m. and midnight.

The age and gender of pedestrians are also large factors. Children and the elderly are more at risk of being involved in pedestrian accidents than are people of other ages. In 2013, 21 percent of all children who were age 14 or younger who were killed in accidents were pedestrians. Five percent of all of those who were killed were children, and this age group also accounted for 15 percent of all of the pedestrians who were injured in traffic accidents. Elderly people ages 65 and older accounted for 19 percent of the pedestrian deaths and 10 percent of the pedestrian injuries. More than 66 percent of the total fatalities were male.

In 49 percent of the reported pedestrian accidents, either the driver or the pedestrian was under the influence of alcohol at the time of the collision. Of those crashes that were fatal, 15 percent involved drivers who had blood alcohol concentrations of .08 percent or higher. In addition to alcohol use, other driver factors include drivers who fail to come to a stop at intersections, motorists who pass other motorists in crosswalks or intersections, driver inattention due to cell phone use or other electronic device use and others. Some drivers also simply failed to see the pedestrian because of not paying attention to his or her position on the side of the road.

What to do if you are Struck by a Motor Vehicle

It is important for you to do several things if you or a loved one are struck by a motor vehicle. If it is possible, try to not move the victim and call for help. If you are able to do so, collect the names and contact information for any witnesses as well as the make, model and plate number for the vehicle who struck you or your loved one. Make certain to give the police your statement. Be careful to not accept the blame for the accident. Your attorney will help to determine and prove the driver’s liability in order to present a stronger case to the insurance company. Finally, even if you do not initially believe you are seriously injured, you should still seek medical attention and get a thorough examination. Some types of serious injuries, such as those that are internal, may not initially show symptoms.

Contact a Pedestrian Accident and Injury Attorney

If you or your loved one was seriously injured in a pedestrian accident in Los Angeles, Orange County, the Inland Empire or anywhere in Southern California it is important for you to get the help of a pedestrian accident and injury attorney as soon as possible. An attorney can give you an honest assessment and determine who appears to be at fault in the accident. In many pedestrian accident cases, insurance companies may try to dispute that the drivers were liable even though the drivers caused the accidents. An attorney may be able to use experts and investigators in order to prove the driver’s liability. This can help to maximize your recovery of damages so that you can be compensated for all of your losses, including your medical expenses, wage loss, physical pain and emotional distress. For more information on legal help with any pedestrian accident claim in Los Angeles or anywhere in California click here.

Sources

★★★★★

I have known Steven for some time now and when his services were required he jumped in and took control of my cases. I had two and they were handled with the utmost professionalism and courtesy. He went the extra mile regardless of the bumps in the road. I can not see me using any other attorney and I would recommend him to any of my family and friends. Josie A.

Steven was vital during our most trying time. He was referred by a friend after an accident that involved a family member. While he was critical and lying in the hospital, Steven was kind, patient and knowledgeable about what we were going through. Following our loss, Steven became a tough and aggressive negotiator and made sure that we receive a huge compensation. I would refer Steven in fact, this happened 2 years ago and I still speak highly of his service. Cheryl S.

Mr. Sweat is a pitbull in the courtroom as well as settlement negotiations - You can't have a better equipped attorney in your corner! It is a pleasure working as colleagues together on numerous cases. He can get the job done. Jonathan K.

Because of Steven Sweat, my medical support was taken care of. Plus, I had more money to spare for my other bills. Steven is not only an excellent personal injury lawyer, providing the best legal advice, but also a professional lawyer who goes beyond his call of duty just to help his clients! He stood up for me and helped me get through the process. I would definitely recommend. I couldn't think of any better lawyer than him. MiraJane C.

I must tell anyone, if you need a great attorney, Steve sweat is the guy! I had an awful car accident and had no idea where to turn. He had so much to deal with because my accident was a 4 car pile up. Not to mention all the other cars were behind me and they were not wanting to settle in any way! He never stopped working for me and had my best interest at heart! Audra W.

I believe I made the best choice with Steven M Sweat, Personal Injury. I was very reluctant to go forward with my personal injury claim. I had a valid claim and I needed a professional attorney to handle it. I felt so much better when I let Steven take my case. His team did everything right and I am very satisfied. Stia P.

I have to say that Steve has been exemplary! I met Steve at a point with my case that I was ready to give up. He took the time and dealt with all of my concerns. Most importantly, he was present and listened to what I was going through. He was able to turn things around, put me and my case on the right track! The results were better that expected! Highly recommend!! Cody A.

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