October is Pedestrian Safety Awareness Month, recognized by the NHTSA each year. Jones & Swanson is committed to raising awareness about the significant risks associated with pedestrian safety.
Pedestrian injuries and fatalities have been on the rise in the United States every year.
- In 2023, 68,244 pedestrians were injured in traffic crashes. This statistic caused the pedestrian injury rate to increase by 1% of all pedestrian injuries from 2022.
- In 2023, pedestrians accounted for 18% of all traffic fatalities and 3% of all traffic-related injuries.
It is always good to be aware of your surroundings when on the road, as you may find yourself a possible victim of a catastrophic injury.
What is the Georgia Law for Stopping and Yielding?
Most states, including the state of Georgia, require that all motor vehicles must stop completely at a stop sign and yield in the presence of any yield signs:
(a) Preferential right of way may be indicated by stop signs or yield signs as authorized in Code Section 32-6-50.
(b) Except when directed to proceed by a police officer, every driver of a vehicle approaching a stop sign shall stop at a clearly marked stop line or, if there is no stop line, before entering the crosswalk on the near side of the intersection or, if there is no crosswalk, at the point nearest the intersecting roadway where the driver has a view of approaching traffic on the intersecting roadway before entering it. After stopping, the driver shall yield the right of way to any vehicle in the intersection or approaching on another roadway so closely as to constitute an immediate hazard during the time when such driver is moving across or within the intersection or junction of roadways.
(c) The driver of a vehicle approaching a yield sign shall, in obedience to such sign, slow down to a speed reasonable for the existing conditions and, if required for safety to stop, shall stop at a clearly marked stop line or, if there is no stop line, before entering the crosswalk on the near side of the intersection or, if there is no crosswalk, at the point nearest the intersecting roadway where the driver has a view of approaching traffic on the intersecting roadway before entering it. After slowing or stopping, the driver shall yield the right of way to any vehicle in the intersection or approaching on another roadway so closely as to constitute an immediate hazard during the time such driver is moving across or within the intersection or junction of roadways. If such a driver is involved in a collision with a vehicle in the intersection after driving past a yield sign without stopping, such collision shall be deemed prima-facie evidence of his failure to yield the right of way.
Safety Tips to Remember When Driving
Before hitting the road, it is important to make sure that you and others around you are aware of the following:
Drivers should always:
- Slow down the vehicle when driving through a neighborhood or school zone.
- Stay alert for any pedestrians during the day and at night.
- Yield to individuals crossing on the sidewalk.
- Avoid impaired driving.
- Avoid all distractions when behind the wheel.
Pedestrians should always:
- Stop and look both ways before crossing a crosswalk.
- Wear any reflective clothing when walking or biking at night.
- Avoid distracted walking and focus on your surroundings.
Pedestrian Rights and Responsibility
When on the road, pedestrians generally have the right of way when crossing at intersections and crosswalks. Drivers that fail to yield to pedestrians can be held liable for injury or death.
Determining Fault Between a Driver and a Pedestrian
How do you determine who is at fault between a driver and a pedestrian? Fault is not automatically given to the driver or the pedestrian. There are few ways to determine who is liable:
- Gather any basic facts from the accident.
- Determine any actions taken from the pedestrian and the driver.
- Collect as much evidence as possible.
- Go through the evidence and identify the fault of everyone involved.
- Consult an attorney or legal expert.
Jones & Swanson wants to make sure that you and your family are safe this month and prioritize pedestrian safety.
Pedestrian Accident Risks
There are certain times of the day and conditions when pedestrians accidents are more common:
- During the Weekends: Pedestrian accidents are likely to occur during Friday and Saturday nights, due to the possibility of drivers being under the influence.
- Rush hour: (7-9 am) during the morning commute to work and (4-6 pm) during the evening commute home. Due to the heavy traffic and congestion, it makes the probability of getting into an accident much higher.
- Evening or Night: The most pedestrian fatalities occur between 6pm to 9pm. Driving at night is very dangerous, especially through dim/low-lit areas. In 2023, 25% of all pedestrians fatalities occurred between 6pm and 9pm, and 24% happened between 9pm-12am.
Every decision you make while driving impacts your safety and the safety of others. Staying aware and focused on the road will help prevent any future pedestrian accidents.
Walking on the Roads at Night
Walking at night can be especially dangerous. Walking around at night also adds to the risk of a pedestrian accident. There are a few essential safety tips that will help keep you safe while you are walking at night:
- Wearing reflective clothing or add reflective materials to yourself.
- Carry a flashlight or some type of light source while you walk.
- Walk with someone that you know and are comfortable with.
- Obey all of the safety signs and signals that you pass by. Stop at an intersection or crosswalk, look both ways cautiously, and cross the street. Also, obey traffic signals and make sure that any drivers that are around you can see you.
Community Efforts
Don’t just follow the law, prioritize pedestrian safety. Whether you are an experienced or a new driver, these tips may also be beneficial for drivers on the road and can help ensure that all drivers and pedestrians get home safely. Let’s make pedestrian safety a regular priority!
FAQ
Who has the Right of Way: Pedestrians or Drivers?
Pedestrians have the right of way! Drivers must stop and yield to pedestrians. Pedestrians must follow all crosswalk and intersection laws.
Is It Safer to Walk on the Sidewalk or on the Street?
It is recommended that you always walk on the sidewalk. If you are walking in an area with no sidewalk, walk facing oncoming traffic, so that way the drivers can see you.
Is it Unsafe to Walk with Headphones?
Yes. It is not safe to walk with headphones on because it blocks you from hearing what’s going on around you.
We hope that everyone has an enjoyable fall season, and remembers to practice pedestrian safety when driving during the changing weather seasons. Jones & Swanson cares about your safety and is dedicated to making sure we spread awareness for safe and proactive driving throughout our communities.
Jones & Swanson Is A Personal Injury Law Firm Located In Marietta, Georgia, If You Or Someone You Know Has Been In A Car Accident, Slip And Fall, Or Dog Bite, Seek Immediate Medical Assistance, Then Give Us A Call At (770) 427-5498 Or contact Us On Awjlaw.com for A Free Consultation To Find Out The Next Steps You May Want To Take.
Categories: Car Accident
