According to Nashville’s Metro Police Department, 30 people have died in pedestrian accidents since January 2015. Police reports show that in 2015, there were a total of 18 pedestrian deaths. As of now, there have been 12 in 2016. Police estimate the number of pedestrian accidents may be
Police say the main factors contributing to the pedestrian accidents are failure to use crosswalks and pedestrians who are under the influence of alcohol while trying to cross a street. The other percentage are attributed to driver error, usually failure to yield the right-of-way to those crossing the street.
HOW PEDESTRIANS CAN STAY SAFE WHEN CROSSING THE STREET
Certain movements have been initiative by both city officials and residents to help keep pedestrians safe in Nashville, such as the Nashville Needs Sidewalks initiative and the Strategic Plan for Sidewalks and Bikeways. However, there are still steps pedestrians can take to keep safe, including:
- Wearing bright or reflective gear at night
- Obeying all traffic signals
- When possible, cross in crosswalks or try using the pedestrian scramble
- Keep your eyes off your phone and earplugs out
- Do not walk while impaired by alcohol
- When possible, use the sidewalk. When there is no sidewalk available, walk against traffic, not with it
- If you are getting on or off a bus, cross in front of the bus, where the driver can see you
WHAT DRIVERS CAN DO TO PREVENT PEDESTRIAN ACCIDENTS
Pedestrian safety is a two-way street, so to speak, and drivers must also do their part in preventing pedestrian accidents. This includes remaining alert and reducing speed in areas with high pedestrian traffic, particularly in bad weather when visibility is limited. In suburban areas, drivers should be particularly aware of pedestrians when pulling into or backing out of driveways. When approaching a crosswalk, always yield the right-of-way to pedestrians.
Stanley A. Davis is a personal injury attorney in Nashville, Tennessee who fights for those injured in pedestrian accidents.
“He has made it clear to you, mortal man, what is good and what the LORD is requiring from you—to act with justice, to treasure the LORD’s gracious love, and to walk humbly in the company of your God.” Micah 6:8
Source: https://fox17.com/news/local/30-pedestrians-struck-killed-in-nashville-since-jan-2015