Pedestrians make up over 20 percent of all traffic-related deaths in Delaware each year, according to the Delaware Department of Transportation (DOT). It is one of the highest pedestrian fatality rates in the nation, just below Florida. The state is trying to change this with a public awareness campaign Walk Smart.
The Walk Smart campaign was launched in 2018 and is a joint effort between the Office of Highway Safety and DelDOT, and aims to reduce these accidents by working with community law enforcement to reduce unsafe practices on the road. The campaign will educate pedestrians on safe walking and crossing practices and stop violators.
Organizations such as Bike Delaware point to a lack of crosswalks, broken or poorly maintained sidewalks, median barriers, and a need for careful community planning; as reasons behind the number of pedestrian accidents. While these infrastructure changes may be adapted, they take time. Meanwhile, pedestrian and cyclist accidents continue to happen throughout the state.
Unfortunately, accidents, injuries, and deaths are often blamed on the pedestrians themselves. Pedestrians are vulnerable to injury, and motorists should be extra cautious while driving in congested areas where pedestrians will be walking.
Injuries to those on foot or on a bicycle in a traffic accident are serious, and can be deadly. An injured pedestrian may need legal assistance to help them financially recover.
Those who have lost a loved one or have been injured in a pedestrian accident can contact Wilmington pedestrian accident lawyers at Rhoades & Morrow for assistance. Call (302) 427-9500 or complete an online form to schedule a free consultation. Located in Wilmington, Bear, and Milford, Delaware, the firm serves clients throughout Middletown, Dover, Milford, Lewes, Rehoboth, Elsmere, and Seaford.
