Arizona Has the Most Pedestrian Accidents in the United States
Arizona has warm temperatures almost all-year-round and it is an excellent location to be outside and enjoy the sunshine. It has been noted as the most dangerous state in the country for pedestrians to be out and about. Pedestrians aren’t just those who are walking, it is also for runners, and anyone who is using a manual or motorized wheelchair.
What Are The Pedestrian Accidents Statistics In Arizona?
There were approximately 226 pedestrians that lost their lives in accidents on the roads in 2017 as reported by the Arizona Department of Transportation. Unfortunately for our state, the rate of pedestrian deaths per 100,000 is 1.61. When compared to the national average at .8 per 100,000, Arizona’s rate is quite high. Statistically, males have been killed in pedestrian accidents much more so than women. There were three times as many men who died in 2017 as there were women. Also that year there were over 1,500 pedestrians injured.
The very populated regions of Maricopa County and the Phoenix Metropolitan area have the highest rate for pedestrian accidents. These urban areas far outweigh more rural roads for these types of accidents. There were 124 pedestrians killed crossing the road versus 939 injured. Walking with traffic caused 6 deaths in 2017 and 94 injuries. Walking against traffic was responsible for 7 deaths and 102 injuries. Other causes of pedestrian accidents included standing, lying, getting in and out of a vehicle, working a vehicle, pushing a vehicle, and working on the road.
Alcohol was a factor in almost 11% of all those pedestrians who were either injured or lost their lives in an accident in 2017. The time of day and the weather did not seem to play a part in pedestrian accidents.
What Is Arizona Law Regarding Pedestrian Accidents?
Arizona law dictates that drivers must:
- Yield to pedestrians using a designated crosswalk
- Not pass another vehicle if there is a pedestrian present at a crosswalk
- Not pass a school bus when it is stopped with lights that are flashing and a stop sign that has been extended
- Do not speed in excess of 15 miles per hour in a designated school zone
A pedestrian who is injured by a negligent driver is entitled to pursue damages including medical expenses, lost wages, property damages, as well as pain and suffering.
Do You Need Effective Legal Representation For Injuries As A Pedestrian In Arizona?
The Arizona serious injury attorneys at ELG will have represented many victims who were injured by negligent drivers as pedestrians in the state of Arizona. We know the damages that a person faces who was hit by a vehicle and we understand the need for the most compensation possible to help them pay for their damages and treatment for their injuries. ELG’s team of Phoenix automobile accident attorneys will fight aggressively on your behalf so that you see your full legal justice after a serious accident.
The lawyers at ELG are here to speak with you about your accident experience at 623-562-3838. Call today and set up a free consultation at either of our locations in Phoenix and Mesa, Arizona.
