With the days getting shorter, concerns about pedestrian safety are on the rise. The factors contributing to an increase in nighttime pedestrian accidents are widely varied.
Being more aware of how the nighttime can influence potential vehicle accidents can help you stay calm in the moment when a crash happens.
Reduced visibility
One glaring issue that emerges with the onset of nighttime is worse visibility. The absence of natural daylight creates significant challenges for both pedestrians and drivers. This compromised visibility sets the stage for potential accidents.
Artificial lighting
While artificial lighting aims to alleviate visibility issues, it can sometimes have unintended consequences. The glaring illumination from streetlights and vehicle headlights can be blinding, harming someone’s ability to focus. This visual overload can lead to misjudgments and errors when attempting to navigate streets safely.
Nighttime social activities
The allure of the night often beckons people out for social activities or work-related commitments. Consequently, urban streets reflect an increase in pedestrian traffic during the evening hours. This influx of foot traffic invariably heightens the risk of accidents involving vehicles.
Alcohol
A significant contributing factor to nighttime pedestrian accidents is alcohol consumption. As of 2022, the bar and nightclub industry in America alone is worth an impressive $26.67 billion, reflecting its popularity.
When individuals consume alcohol, their judgment and coordination become impaired. This impairment can lead to risky behaviors such as jaywalking, disregarding designated crosswalks and ignoring traffic signals.
Infrastructure
Inadequate road infrastructure also plays an important role in the surge of nighttime pedestrian accidents. Poorly lit streets, missing or damaged pedestrian signage and neglected crosswalks create a dangerous environment. Pedestrians may struggle to discern the safest path to cross streets or navigate sidewalks, further elevating the likelihood of accidents.
Even a few extra seconds of caution may make a huge difference. However, a pedestrian accident can also happen without warning.
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