Enjoying a walk or riding a bike to get around Asheville is pretty standard. People do it all the time. Despite that, there are still pedestrian and bicycle accidents that happen.
Drivers need to be more aware of pedestrians and cyclists because these two groups of people don’t have the kinds of protections that people in vehicles do. Even a slower impact could cause serious injuries as a pedestrian or cyclist is hit and thrown to the ground.
Thousands of pedestrians die each year because of crashes
Did you know that 2,000 or more pedestrians are killed in traffic collisions each year? On top of that, for every 150 to 200 people who die, another 200 to 300 pedestrians are hit and injured.
Around 1,000 cyclists are involved in crashes annually, and around 20 people die. Additionally, another 60 of those injury victims end up with serious, life-changing wounds. In both the cases of pedestrians and cyclists, those who are most at risk of serious injuries or death are children and young adults. The elderly are also at risk, particularly in the pedestrian group.
What should people do to help prevent these serious collisions?
To help prevent serious collisions that lead to injuries and fatal impacts, it’s important for drivers to pay close attention to the road, put down distracting digital devices and avoid rushing. Pedestrians and cyclists should wear bright colors or reflective gear, travel in groups when possible and always follow traffic signals and rules.
Drivers, pedestrians and cyclists can watch out for each other to stay safer. If you’re hit, though, remember that the driver responsible may be held financially liable for your injuries.
