Walking While Intoxicated Is A Major Cause Of Pedestrian Deaths

Walking home after a few drinks may seem like a safer alternative to getting behind the wheel, however a new study released by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) shows that walking while intoxicated is a major cause of pedestrian deaths.

In 2011 alone, 35 percent of pedestrians killed had a BAC level above the legal limit for driving, which is .08 or higher. The largest age range of pedestrians killed is the 25-34 year old range, accounting for 50 percent of the alcohol related pedestrian fatalities. Overall, pedestrian deaths are up 3 percent from 2010.

In response to the increase in pedestrian deaths, the NHTSA has created the "Everyone Is A Pedestrian" campaign.

The following are safety tips for pedestrians from the NHTSA:

• Be predictable. Follow the rules of the road and obey signs and signals. 
• Walk on sidewalks whenever they are available. 
• If there is no sidewalk, walk facing traffic and as far from traffic as possible. 
• Keep alert at all times; don't be distracted by electronic devices that take your eyes (and ears) off the road. 
• Cross streets at crosswalks or intersections whenever possible. This is where drivers expect pedestrians. 
Look for cars in all directions - including those turning left or right. 
• If a crosswalk or intersection is not available, locate a well-lit area where you have the best view of traffic. Wait for a gap in traffic that allows you enough time to cross safely, and continue to watch for traffic as you cross.
• Never assume a driver sees you. Make eye contact with drivers as they approach you to make sure you are seen.
• Be visible at all times. Wear bright clothing during the day, and wear reflective materials or use a flashlight at night.
• Watch for cars entering or exiting driveways, or backing up in parking lots.
• Avoid alcohol and drugs when walking; they impair your abilities and judgment too.

The following are safety tips for drivers from the NHTSA:

• Look out for pedestrians everywhere, at all times. Safety is a shared responsibility. 
• Use extra caution when driving in hard- to-see conditions, such as nighttime or in bad weather. 
• Slow down and be prepared to stop when turning or otherwise entering a crosswalk. 
• Yield to pedestrians in crosswalks and stop well back from the crosswalk to give other vehicles an opportunity to see the crossing pedestrians so they can stop too. 
• Never pass vehicles stopped at a crosswalk. There may be people crossing that you can't see.
• Never drive under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.
• Follow the speed limit, especially around people on the street.
• Follow slower speed limits in school zones and in neighborhoods where there are children present.
• Be extra cautious when backing up - pedestrians can move into your path.

Contact the St. Louis Personal Injury Attorneys of The Glassman Law Firm at 314-446-6000 if you or a loved one has been injured or killed as a result of a pedestrian accident.

Missouri Motorcycle Accident Attorney

Safety is a priority for many bikers. Unfortunately, the NHTSA found that "per mile traveled, motorcyclists are about 37 times more likely than passenger car occupants to die in a traffic crash." According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's latest data involving motorcycle accidents, 5,290 motorcyclists were killed and 96,000 were injured in 2008. This is a 2% increase in fatalities from the previous year.

While you can't control other people's actions, there are steps you can take to begin your ride more safely. Maintaining your bike is extremely important. Be sure to check tire pressure, inspect the wheels, inspect the cables and hoses, test lights and turn signals (if any), check oil and fluid levels, and review the overall condition of the bike. If you don't feel safe riding it, leave it in the garage.

Personal safety is tremendously important as well. Always wear a helmet. The NHTSA found that helmets are 37% effective in preventing fatal injuries to bikers. Be sure to wear clothing that offers some level of protection. Wearing bright colors or reflective materials can only add to your level of safety. Wearing full fingered gloves with a non-slip surface can help maintain grip and prevent abrasions to the hands in an accident. Wearing leather boots to protect your feet will give you an added level of protection.

If you or a loved one has been injured or killed in a motorcycle accident, contact the Missouri Motorcycle Accident Attorneys of The Glassman Law Firm at 314-446-6000 or find them online at www.motorcycleaccidentattorneys.net.