Elderly Pedestrian Safety in Stockton
I’m Ed Smith, a Stockton personal injury lawyer. Walking is a great way of fostering a healthy lifestyle. For the elderly, this may be their primary means of transportation in getting around town. While the benefits of walking are endless in older adults, there are safety concerns that should be taken into consideration as they walk down the road in Stockton.
Why Walking is Beneficial
Walking is hugely beneficial, especially for the elderly population, as the list below illustrates:
- Walking regularly helps maintain a healthy weight and aids in weight loss;
- Assists in boosting endorphins, the group of hormones secreted within the nervous system and brain, further improving one’s mental health;
- Increases endurance and flexibility as well as limits bone density reductions;
- Regular walks limit one’s risk of stroke, diabetes and heart disease;
How to Stay Safe as a Pedestrian
When taking a stroll around town, follow these tips to make sure you arrive at your destination safely:
- Pedestrians should maintain their visibility at all times to ensure their safety, particularly at night. Wearing reflective or light-colored clothing can also help when walking in poorly-lit areas or during inclement conditions;
- Pedestrians should follow all traffic signals and use crosswalks when possible;
- Wearing shoes that provide ample ankle and foot support with suitable grip is essential in preventing slipping or sliding;
- Stopped vehicles can obstruct the view of other motorists. Pedestrians should keep in mind that if a driver allows them to pass, it does not necessarily mean that other drivers are aware of their presence while crossing;
- Look both ways before crossing a street, even at crosswalks;
- When sidewalks are not available, pedestrians should walk along the far side of the road and always face the flow of traffic.
Pedestrian Accidents
Below are some alarming statistics surrounding the incidence of pedestrian accidents throughout the United States:
- Approximately 5,376 pedestrians lost their lives in traffic accidents in 2015 compared to 4,884 in the prior year, accounting as an overall increase of roughly 10 percent (according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration);
- Pedestrian fatalities have increased by 46 percent since hitting their lowest point in 2009 as traffic accidents involving pedestrians have become more frequent and deadlier (according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety);
- Elderly pedestrians accounted for 13 percent of all pedestrian injuries and 19 percent of all pedestrian deaths reported in 2015 (according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention);
- The number of pedestrian fatalities throughout the country ranged from 359 in California to one in Wyoming in 2016 (according to the Governors Highway Safety Association).
Why Elderly Pedestrians are Vulnerable
Older people are more vulnerable to pedestrian accidents due to deficits they may develop over time. Issues such as mental confusion, visual problems, disabilities and balance difficulties can all be considered factors in pedestrian injuries and fatalities among the elderly. In the event of an elderly pedestrian suffering injuries in an accident due to the fault of a negligent driver or entity, an experienced personal injury attorney in Stockton should be contacted promptly as unique circumstances may apply in these types of cases. Pedestrians who suffer from blindness or any other kind of physical impairment are held to a different degree of care, which should be taken into immediate consideration when seeking a fair recovery for damages incurred.
Stockton Personal Injury & Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
I’m Ed Smith, a Stockton personal injury lawyer. Elderly pedestrians who have been struck by motor vehicles are often left with serious, life-changing injuries. If this has happened to you or your loved one, contact me any time at (209) 227-1931 or toll-free at (800) 404-5400 for free, friendly legal advice.
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