According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there is a higher risk of pedestrian accidents occurring after Daylight Saving Time has ended. Daylight Saving Time will be over for the year on Sunday and clocks will be turned back one hour.
Adjusting to the new low-light environment can take time, and NHTSA is warning motorists and pedestrians to exercise more caution so as prevent pedestrian accidents from happening.
For motorists, NHTSA is recommending that you:
• Make sure your windows, windshield, and mirrors are clean and free of frost or fog.
• Slow down.
• Don’t assume that a pedestrian knows that you are there.
NHTSA is recommending that pedestrians:
• Look before crossing the street—even if the traffic light indicates that you can go ahead and you are at a pedestrian crosswalk.
• Avoid crossing between parked vehicles.
• Avoid jaywalking.
• Walk on sidewalks.
• Face traffic when walking on the street.
• Do not assume that a motorist can sees you.
Of 4,092 people killed in US pedestrian accidents last year, 25% died between 4pm and 8pm when there was less light out. 13% of the pedestrian fatalities took place between 4am and 8am.
Our Washington DC pedestrian accident lawyers know that it can be tough to recover from injuries sustained in a traffic crash. Also, medical costs and recovery expenses can take their financial toll. There may be a negligent motorist or another party who should be held liable for your DC personal injury or a loved one’s wrongful death.
Consumer Advisory: As Daylight Saving Time Ends, NHTSA Cautions Drivers on Increased Pedestrian Risk, NHTSA, November 5, 2010
Car Accidents with Pedestrians, Nolo
Related Web Resources:
Q&As: Pedestrians, Insurance Institute for Highway Safety
Maryland Car Accident Attorney Blog
It is important that you do not agree to settle with the other party’s insurer until you have explored your legal options. An experienced Washington DC pedestrian accident law firm can help you make sure that you take into account all costs and damages—both current and future—that you will have incurred as a result of your involvement in the collision.