Distracted Behavior Major Factor in Traffic Accidents in Arizona
Distracted behaviors aren’t only reserved for drivers when it comes to a traffic accident. Distracted pedestrians weather they be walkers or bicyclists can also cause issues on the road. Because drivers and pedestrians engage in distracting behavior, there has been an increase in pedestrian accidents, many of which result in death. Two factors that are believed to be the cause for much distraction in people include the rise in marijuana use as well as the chronic use of handheld devices like phones.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicates that in 2016, there were almost 6,000 pedestrian fatalities from crashes in the U.S., which comes out to about one pedestrian death every 1.5 hours. Texting and driving or texting and walking can cause very unfortunate outcomes for individuals who are more engaged in their phones than in their surroundings. Additionally, marijuana use has also been cited as a factor for pedestrian deaths increasing at an alarming rate. For instance, in Washington D.C. as well as in 7 other states where marijuana use became legal in recent years, pedestrian deaths climbed to over 16 percent in 2017 alone.
Pedestrians and drivers under the influence of marijuana aren’t the only intoxicated people to have problems with incidents. Those who drink alcohol also have increased dangers of accidents. The number of drunken walkers who are being hit and losing their lives is also on the rise. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported that more than half of pedestrians who lost their lives in traffic accidents in the year 2016 had Blood Alcohol Contents (BAC) over the legal limit of .08.
Drunk walking like drunk driving is seriously dangerous. It impairs an individual’s motor functions, balance, sight, and judgment. It also slows reaction time and causes poor decision making. Both drunk drivers and drunk walkers can cause traffic accidents which have a high probability of leading to death.
Pedestrian Deaths In the United States
Pedestrian deaths have seen an increase up 27 percent from 2007 through 2016. This is particularly interesting because other traffic accident deaths reported during this same timeframe decreased. The majority of victims in these crimes tend to be aged 21 to 59. Walkers aren’t the only type of pedestrians who are seeing issues with impaired behavior resulting in deadly accidents, bicyclists also are at risk.
There is a large effort to reduce drunk driving across the country and provide education and awareness of the problem, but similar efforts have not been made about drunk and distracted pedestrian behaviors. Highlighting pedestrian behavior can help add to public safety efforts. For instance, intoxicated pedestrians should obtain a sober driver whether it be from a ride-sharing source like the popular Uber or Lyft or a friend just as one who is could potentially drive should do.
Arizona Personal Injury Attorneys
The Phoenix serious injury attorneys at ELG are well-known and well-respected throughout the state of Arizona for our proven track record of success defending victims who suffered personal injuries. When you have been the victim of a traffic accident that was not your fault but at the hands of a distracted or negligent driver or pedestrian, you need to seek legal guidance and representation of a qualified Arizona motor vehicle accident attorney. Call us today to speak with one of our aggressive Arizona serious injury accident attorneys during a free consultation at (623) 877-3600. We have offices conveniently located in both Mesa and Pheonix.
Distracted behavior is a major factor in traffic accidents in Arizona. From texting while driving to fumbling with the radio, taking your eyes off the road for even a second can have serious consequences. If you or a loved one has been injured in a distracted driving accident, it’s important to have a trusted local attorney on your side. ELG Accident Attorneys is a top-rated firm in Arizona with a proven track record of success in representing accident victims. They have a team of experienced attorneys who understand the unique laws and regulations in Arizona and will fight to get you the compensation you deserve. Additionally, they offer a free consultation and work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay anything unless they win your case. Trust ELG Accident Attorneys to be your advocate after a distracted driving accident.
