Nashville has seen an unusually high rate of pedestrian accidents so far this year. A record-setting 19 pedestrians have been killed in the city so far, with two months remaining. What is causing this increase in accidents and what can we do to combat it?
Nashville’s growing populace and popularity are leading to an increase in traffic on both streets and sidewalks. This means there is a higher chance of car-versus-pedestrian accidents, which are often catastrophic or fatal. And as winter approaches, the days will get shorter and the sun will hang lower in the sky. This often correlates with higher rates of accidents.
To fight this increasing rate of accidents, Walk Bike Nashville and the Tennessee Highway Safety Office are teaming up to raise pedestrian awareness.
HOW YOU CAN HELP PREVENT PEDESTRIAN ACCIDENTS
According to Walk Bike, behaviors like wearing dark clothing, walking at night or walking drunk have not increased significantly in the past decades. However, the number of drivers and pedestrians has, and accidents correlate with times where streets and sidewalks are most full.
October is National Walk Month, and the holidays often come with a spike in fatal pedestrian accidents. Walk Bike and the THSO have begun the “Look For Me” campaign, which hopes to raise awareness through the use of billboard ads, bus benches and online ads aimed at drivers.
Do your part to protect Nashville pedestrians. Obey street signs, avoid reckless behaviors like speeding, keep your cell phone in your pocket or out of reach while driving and, of course, don’t drink and drive.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), nearly 5,000 pedestrians are killed in motor vehicle accidents annually. If you have been injured or lost a loved one in a Nashville pedestrian accident, our attorneys are prepared to assist you.
2 Timothy 4:7-8, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.”