It is a constant concern for state officials to implement procedures to ensure that pedestrians are properly protected as they walk down the road. In many cases, car accidents involving pedestrians are difficult to predict and often yield some of the most serious results. The recent numbers coming out of North Carolina have illustrated this dilemma, as it was reported that the number of pedestrian accidents rose in 2012.
There were 561 pedestrian accidents in unincorporated parts of North Carolina in 2012. In the previous year, there were only 504, indicating an 11 percent increase. Police have stated that these accidents occurred on all types of roads, making it difficult to determine where the highest risk lay.
It was also reported that the number of fatalities that resulted from these accidents also rose significantly. In 2011 there were 84 deaths, while in 2012 there were 98, a 17 percent increase. Police have stated that they feel that inattentiveness by drivers and pedestrians are important factors in these types of accidents, but there may also be other causes in play.
Out of all types of car accidents, those involving pedestrians can have the deadliest results, simply due to the lack of protection a pedestrian typically enjoys. It is with this increased risk in mind that motorists need to pay extra special attention to the road when traveling in areas that are frequented by pedestrians. If they do not, this can lead to serious consequences that may not only result in criminal charges, but also a civil case. If it is established that a driver negligently caused a pedestrian accident, claims for wrongful death or personal injury -as the case may be – could follow.
Source: News-Record.com, “Pedestrian accidents in Triad, North Carolina on the rise,” Joe Gamm, March 30, 2013