Why Pedestrian Accidents Are So Common at Night

woman holding a dog, standing on a sidewalk under a streelight

Nighttime is Dangerous for Pedestrians

According to the California Office of Traffic Safety, nearly 1,000 pedestrians were injured or killed in crashes throughout the state in 2018. This was an increase of 26% over four years.

The National Safety Council is dedicated to tracking incidences of pedestrian accidents nationwide, and their studies suggest that nearly 80% of fatalities occur at nighttime. There are many reasons why this may be the case.

Main Causes of Pedestrian Crashes

Pedestrian safety is a shared responsibility between all road users, and the most common causes of pedestrian accidents are often attributed to both the individual and the driver. Here are some of the most common causes of pedestrian accidents:

  • Distractions: Whether it's a pedestrian looking at their phone while crossing or a driver not paying attention.
  • Drugs or alcohol: about 47% of pedestrian crashes involve an impaired driver or pedestrian.
  • Speeding or reckless driving.
  • Disobeying traffic signs and signals, including “walk” or “don't walk” signals at intersections.

Although these factors may cause accidents any time of day, studies have proven that there can be higher rates at night. For example, nearly two-thirds of all drunk driving accidents occur between midnight and 3 am. Likewise, speeding-related fatalities are at their highest between 10 pm and 3 am.

Pedestrians should exercise caution and remain attentive when traveling at night to reduce the probability of being involved in a preventable accident.

Fresno Pedestrian Accident Attorneys

Ensuring the safety and protection of all roadway users is our top priority. When you or a loved one becomes injured due to a driver's negligence, know that you can seek legal action and compensation for the damages caused.

Our Fresno attorneys are dedicated to keeping you and your family safe. Call (559) 900-1280 or fill out this short form to get in touch with an attorney at Fowler | Helsel | Vogt.

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