Why the Increase in Columbus Pedestrians and Car Accidents?

Many people are wondering why there has been an increase in car accidents in Columbus, OH that involve pedestrians. Usually when we hear about a car accident we think of two vehicles colliding or a car veering off the road and colliding with trees or structures. For some reason, in the past few years we have seen an increase in the number of Columbus pedestrians hit and killed by cars. 

In 2019 alone, there were 431 car accidents involving pedestrians reported by Columbus dispatch. Of these, 246 received minor injuries, 64 caused serious injuries and 23 resulted in fatalities. Pedestrian fatalities are increasing across the state of Ohio with 133 deaths statewide in 2018. 

Common Causes of Pedestrian / Vehicle Accidents

While every situation leading to an accident involving a pedestrian and a vehicle are unique, some common causes of these types of car accidents include:

No marked crosswalk – crosswalks marked with paint, lights or signs are much safer for pedestrian crossing.

Walking outside of marked crosswalks – drivers are more likely to notice pedestrians when crossing within the bounds of a marked crosswalk. Approximately 60% of pedestrian crashes occur when people cross the street somewhere other than a crosswalk.

Distracted walking without the ability to hear – many pedestrians are walking while looking at their phones or listening to music. People walking while listening to music with earbuds or airpods prevents them from hearing oncoming traffic and vital warning sounds.

Walking at night – there is a correlation between increases in accidents at dusk especially when daylight savings time ends and it gets darker earlier.

Alcohol – nearly half of all pedestrian vehicle accidents involve alcohol, either by the pedestrian or the driver.

Lack of sidewalk – walking on a route without a sidewalk or walking on the wrong side of the road is also a contributing factor to an increase in pedestrian accidents.

Speeding – drivers who exceed the speed limit are another contributing factor in any accident including crashes with pedestrians.

Elderly and children – children are notorious for not being careful and the elderly may have an increase in accidents due to loss of hearing and eyesight. Motorists must be extra cautious when children or the elderly are visible while driving. 

If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident or pedestrian involved accident, do not hesitate to contact Schiff & Associates. Our personal injury attorneys and experienced car accident lawyers bring a full arsenal of expertise and skill to your case. We thoroughly investigate with engineers and accident investigators, including a former highway patrol officer on our team. 

Schiff & Associates will pursue the maximum compensation for your settlement through negotiations and litigation if necessary. We work for you on a contingency basis and offer free initial consultations. Contact us with any questions and to speak with an experienced car accident lawyer in Ohio to get the settlement you deserve.