Texas is a big state, which means that motor vehicles are pretty much a necessary part of everday life. However, pedestrian traffic is increasing across the state, especially in Austin, the Live Music Capital of the World. People are walking more every day to benefit their health, save money, go green and even take safety into their hands by walking after having a couple drinks while listening to music.
While residents are enjoying the benefits of walking, more pedestrians on the roads also means an increased risk for pedestrian accidents — many of which prove fatal for the unprotected pedestrian. That is why this week is Global Road Safety Week.
Global Road Safety Week runs from Monday, May 6 through Sunday, May 12. The goal? To raise awareness about the number of pedestrian accidents that occur across the country on pretty much a daily basis. In fact, in 2011 there were over 4,400 people who lost their lives as a result of an auto-pedestrian collision.
Some groups of pedestrians were more at risk for being involved in a fatal crash. Adults who were above the age of 65 and children below the age of nine were especially succeptible, accounting for almost half of the pedestrian fatalities.
The AARP, government agencies and other non-profit safety groups are working hard to help repair poorly maintained streets, add more crosswalks, update intersections with pedestrian warning signs and trying to get drivers to pay a little more attention. For victims and their families who need help now, accident attorneys can help obtain the compensation that can get them through the trying time. If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident, please contact our Austin personal injury lawyer at The Stewart Law Firm, PLLC – we’d be happy to help you understand your rights and options during a free case review.
