Some people in Arkansas walk as their primary form of transportation to most places. They may not even own a motor vehicle because of how expensive they are. Others choose to walk in certain situations and drive in others.
Any pedestrian in close proximity to motor vehicles in Arkansas suffers some degree of crash risk. People who educate themselves about the possibility of a pedestrian-car crash can sometimes make smarter choices that will reduce their personal risk of being hit. The following concerns often increase the likelihood of a car striking a pedestrian on public roads.
Alcohol intoxication
One of the more common reasons that people walk instead of drive somewhere is that they have had a bit to drink and don’t want to get behind the wheel. Unfortunately, that is one of the exact scenarios in which walking is particularly dangerous. Pedestrian crashes often involve people who are under the influence of alcohol while walking. Sometimes, the person driving is also under the influence, which exacerbates the risk caused by the pedestrian’s impairment.
Driver distraction
Many pedestrian collisions occur because the driver doesn’t keep their eyes on the road in front of them. Many motorists will pick up their phones at intersections or once they enter a parking lot, even though these locations see the highest amount of pedestrian activity. Drivers who aren’t carefully monitoring their surroundings for pedestrians can very easily cause otherwise preventable collisions that put pedestrians in the hospital or worse.
Late night walks
Once the sun sets, the chance of a pedestrian crash increases. Motorists aren’t on the lookout for pedestrians after dark. Even those who do try to monitor their surroundings may have a hard time spotting someone unless they wear illuminated gear or clothing with reflective strips. Many of the worst pedestrian crashes occur after night falls, although the transitional times between day and night also see increased risk levels for pedestrians.
People who are aware of what elements increase their chance of a collision have an easier time staying safe. They will also be in a better position to hold someone else accountable if they do get hurt in a car-pedestrian crash.
