In 2023, some 6,067 pedestrians sustained serious injuries due to pedestrian accidents on British roads.
Without the protection of a vehicle, pedestrians are among the most vulnerable road users, and a simple walk across a road can quickly turn into a dangerous endeavour.
When drivers are distracted, visibility is limited, or there are road problems, the risk to pedestrians rises.
What makes pedestrians vulnerable?
As mentioned above, without the protection of a vehicle or the protective gear worn by cyclists, pedestrians have nothing to act as a barrier between them and other road users.
In the event of a collision, pedestrian car accidents can be life-altering, with many victims suffering from broken bones and even severe head and spine injuries.
Often, pedestrians can be left with long-term injuries that take months or even years to recover from, as well as the emotional trauma of the event.
Children are even more at risk, with figures showing that 1,251 children aged 6-10 and 3,106 children aged 11-15 were killed or seriously injured in road traffic accidents from 2020 to 2022.
Where do pedestrians have the most accidents?
The majority of pedestrian accidents happen in urban areas such as towns and cities, where there is the most foot and vehicle traffic.
The statistics for pedestrian car accidents vary across the country, but common hotspots include junctions and crossings, busy city centres, roads without pavements and poorly lit areas.
Road traffic accidents most commonly occur during peak hours when roads are congested and drivers are more likely to be distracted or in a rush.
What are the most common causes of pedestrian accidents?
Between 2019 and 2023, ‘pedestrian failure to look properly’ was the most frequently cited contributory factor in fatal or serious collisions involving pedestrians.
However, several factors can contribute to pedestrian accidents, including:
- Drivers being distracted by looking at their phones while driving
- Speeding in pedestrian-heavy areas (city centres and around schools)
- Drivers failing to yield at crossings
- Driving under the influence
- Driving when there is poor visibility (typically at night in dimly lit areas or bad weather)
In most cases, the driver is at fault, and injured pedestrians may be entitled to make a pedestrian accident claim.
Ways pedestrians can reduce the risk of being involved in an accident
While pedestrians cannot control the actions of other road users, there are steps that can be taken to reduce their own risk when travelling on foot.
We would recommend always:
- Using designated traffic and zebra crossings
- Avoid being distracted by your phone or wearing headphones
- Wear reflective clothing when travelling at night
- Make eye contact with drivers before crossing the road
How can we help?
If you have been involved in a pedestrian accident in the past three years, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries, loss of income and medical costs.
To learn more about how our friendly team can assist, feel free to visit our Pedestrian Accident Claims page, or get in touch today by calling us on 0151 256 7898.
Alternatively, send an email to enquiries@waferphillips.co.uk