Pedestrian Safety Month Draws Attention to Traffic Safety

Sep 04,2017

September is Pedestrian Safety Month, and with summer winding down, and many tourists and snowbirds returning to the area, it’s a great time to revisit traffic safety.

The Coachella Valley experienced a drastic increase in pedestrian deaths in 2016. However, this only accounted for a small percentage of fatal pedestrian accidents that occurred across the state. The California Office of Traffic Safety reports that 900 pedestrians died in California in 2016, up from 852 the year prior.

Increased Awareness of Pedestrian Safety

Fortunately, the rise in fatalities in the Coachella Valley has led to increased awareness about the issue. The California Highway Patrol (CHP) and Caltrans have engaged in multiple campaigns this year geared toward pedestrian safety. Most recently, traffic agencies came together for the Look Both Ways campaign. The project included putting up several billboards along I-10 urging drivers to look out for pedestrians.

Pedestrian Deaths Make up One-Quarter of California Traffic Fatalities

Ten years ago, pedestrians were involved in 17% of fatal traffic accidents in California. In 2016, 25% of traffic fatalities involved pedestrians. Distracted drivers and pedestrians have contributed significantly to the uptick in pedestrian fatalities. Other factors include unsafe speed, failure to yield, and failure to see the pedestrian.

“Fortunately, the pedestrian fatality rate this year in the Coachella Valley is on track to be much lower than last year. Let’s continue our efforts during Pedestrian Safety Month and keep working to reduce fatalities across the state,” said Attorney Walter Clark, founder of Walter Clark Legal Group.

Our firm has been handling personal injury cases throughout the California Low Desert and High Desert communities for over 30 years. With a 95% success rate, the California personal injury attorneys at Walter Clark Legal Group will fight to hold those responsible for your loss accountable and win compensation to cover medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If you have been injured in an auto accident and want to discuss your legal options, contact us today for a free consultation with an experienced personal injury lawyer. We have offices in Indio, Rancho Mirage, Victorville, and Yucca Valley and represent clients through the entire California Low Desert and High Desert communities.

DISCLAIMER: The Walter Clark Legal Group blog is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended as legal or medical advice. References to laws are based on general legal practices and vary by location. Information reported comes from secondary news sources. We do handle these types of cases, but whether or not the individuals and/or loved ones involved in these accidents choose to be represented by a law firm is a personal choice we respect. Should you find any of the information incorrect, we welcome you to contact us with corrections.