Home » Law and Legal Articles » Maryland Pedestrian Safety Tips and What to Do After an Accident
Maryland Pedestrian Safety Tips and What to Do After an Accident
Due to more people in Maryland walking, pedestrian injuries and fatalities have increased.
December 08, 2011 /Law and Legal PR News/ -- Maryland Pedestrian Safety Tips and What to Do After an Accident
When most people think of traffic safety, they think of driving carefully in a car and obeying all traffic laws. However, an often overlooked danger on Maryland's roads is pedestrian safety, and not just for young children.
The statistics are shocking. Nationally, every hour and a half a pedestrian is killed. Maryland is no exception, as pedestrian fatalities accounted for 20 percent of all deaths in Maryland in 2008.
What accounts for the high danger? One reason might be that more people are using the roads to walk and bike than ever before. Marylanders might consider walking or biking healthy lifestyle choices or a way to save on gas in a tough economy. More people mean more awareness of pedestrian safety is needed.
Unfortunately, certain behaviors are still causing danger to pedestrians. Intoxicated drivers (and pedestrians) are a danger to themselves and others. Nearly half of all fatal accidents involving pedestrians had alcohol as a contributing factor. Additionally, distracted drivers(and distracted pedestrians) often pay more attention to their cell phones than to practicing safe traffic behaviors. Drivers also may not give bicyclists and walkers enough space, even when the pedestrians are obeying all traffic laws.
Safety Tips
These safety tips can greatly reduce your danger while on or near the road:
-Wear bright or reflective clothing, especially at night
-Carry a flashlight after dark
-Walk on the sidewalk, crosswalk and other designated areas whenever possible
-Make eye contact with drivers
-Don't play loud music or use your cell phone
-Children should have adult supervision
Injured?
Of course, despite all safety precautions, an accident involving injury can occur. If a pedestrian is seriously injured or killed in an accident, there are some options to mitigate the devastation on an individual's life. Payment for medical and hospital bills, lost wages and financial compensation for the loss of a loved one can all help an accident victim cope. Contact a personal injury attorney right away if you have been in a pedestrian accident.
Article provided by Alan Hilliard Legum, P.A.
Visit us at www.alanlegum.com
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