As an adult, it seems simple to cross the busy streets of San Diego in order to avoid an accident. You take a look both ways and ensure that you have enough time to get across the road safely. However, new research from the University of Iowa shows that it is anything but simple for a child to navigate crossing a busy street. Children between the ages of 6 and 14 participated in a simulated environment and were asked to cross one lane of a heavily congested road numerous times. It turns out that children below a certain age lack the motor skills and perceptual judgment ability to navigate this task safely.

Children up through their early teenage years had consistent difficulty when it came time to cross the street The accident rate was even as high as 8% with someone 6 years old. By age 14 children seem to have adapted to avoiding pedestrian accidents more safely. Some children even compensated for their lack of comfort to cross the street by choosing bigger gaps in traffic in which to make a walk across.

Taking extra precautions as a parent this summer is critical for reducing the chances of having your child suffer in a pedestrian accident. Be aware that you child may not yet have the capability to cross the street safely and that holding their hand and advising them about the safety tips and how you navigate this can help impart critical safety lessons for them. If your child has already been struck in a significant pedestrian accident in San Diego and it is the fault of a reckless or negligent driver, you may be entitled to receive compensation, which you can learn more about with a knowledgeable pedestrian accident lawyer San Diego knows and trusts.