University Study Finds More Men Involved in Crosswalk Accidents than Women

The West Virginia University School of Public Health have recently released a study that finds men are over two times more at risk of being killed in a pedestrian accident than women.

There are many factors that the study points to as reasons why men are more likely to be killed in pedestrian traffic accidents. One reason is that men are more likely to try to cross a street that has high speed limits. Men are also at greater risk of being influenced by drugs or alcohol. While most people know it’s not safe to drive while impaired by drugs or alcohol, most people are unaware that it’s not safe to walk while being impaired either.

In most situations, the pedestrian accidents that involved male victims were a result of the man not using crosswalks or wearing dark clothing while crossing the street at night. In addition, the use of drugs and alcohol were also found to be mitigating factors. Many individuals who were involved in pedestrian accidents were also distracted by talking on a cell phone or texting.

Florida pedestrians are required by Florida state statutes to obey the same traffic signals that drivers have to follow. Simply because pedestrians use crosswalks doesn’t mean that the pedestrian has the right way. In fact, unless it’s a marked crosswalk, in the state of Florida, vehicles have the right-of-way and pedestrians must yield to them on any road.

Perhaps one of the best ways to avoid pedestrian accidents is being proactive. Here are a few simple tips to help you avoid being involved in a pedestrian accident.

• Always use a crosswalk when you’re crossing a street.
• When walking near a street use the available sidewalk – when applicable.
• Walk facing oncoming traffic when on a road without sidewalks.
• Avoid becoming distracted while walking along a roadside.

Being safe while walking is the responsibility of the pedestrian. Be mindful of Florida state laws and be aware of surrounding traffic at all times.

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