In 2018, more pedestrians died in Hawaii than drivers involved in car accidents. While this does not happen every year in the state, there was a spike. What caused it to happen? Perhaps it was due to both drivers and pedestrians becoming more engrossed in their cell phones.
As traffic accidents become more prevalent, the Hawaii state government has taken preventative actions with its new Vision Zero program, which will improve traffic engineering and emergency response. Whether you are a driver or pedestrian, it is vital to remain alert and aware of your surroundings, so you and everyone around you is safe.
Intersections
While signaled crosswalks should be the safest place to cross the street, they still pose a risk if you are not watching the vehicles around you. Cars turning left do not always see people crossing the road because they are looking elsewhere for other cars. When there are many busy streets, it is usually better to cross where the crosswalk is clearly marked, so drivers remember to watch for you.
Distractions
Both pedestrians and drivers are guilty of allowing their phones to distract them. Watching a screen or just listening to music while crossing the street, mixed with a texting driver can create an accident very quickly.
Substance use
Whether it is alcohol or drugs, drivers can easily break traffic laws or not see someone walking or jogging on the street. Even if you are just walking and have had a few drinks, you could become a danger to yourself walking in a high-traffic area.
Being involved in an accident as a pedestrian can be incredibly detrimental to your health and well-being, especially if the incident involves life-changing or permanent disabilities. Understand your rights to fair compensation so you can pay your medical bills and fully recover. The state put together a safety manual to help drivers become aware of the dangers they could encounter on the roads, what to do after an accident and how to drive safely to avoid one altogether.