Being a tourist is no easy feat. First, you must learn to read a city’s map in basically no time at all. Then, you must learn to navigate the city traffic and learn the personalities of its drivers. While some cities are relaxed and easy going, others are faced paced and quick to react.

Unfortunately, when bad circumstances and unfamiliarity meet, the outcome can be catastrophic. That’s why it’s extremely important to heed caution when visiting a new city and walking or driving its streets. The advice follows on the heels of a recent La Jolla pedestrian accident that has tragically left a tourist with a catastrophic head injury, clinging to life, according to San Diego 6.

The traffic accident occurred in University City near the intersection of La Jolla Village and Lebon Drive around 11:00 p.m. just shy of the New Years’ Eve. Details of this case, as published, remain unclear. It is uncertain whether the pedestrian in question had been using a crosswalk.

Regarding the driver, police officials do not believe alcohol was a factor in this case.

TOURISM: PEDESTRIAN TRAFFIC

Late-night pedestrian traffic can be one of the most dangerous times to navigate the streets, especially if you’re new to a city. Although details remain unclear in this case, it’s always important to use a crosswalk, especially at night, but even protected crosswalks can prove to be dangerous in the face of limited visibility.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, pedestrians are one of the most vulnerable populations on the road. Of course, without any protection against the impact of a vehicle, pedestrians are indeed left to their own devices when it comes to safety. The CDC also notes that 76,000 people were injured as pedestrians last year; another 4,743 individuals were killed as pedestrians in traffic accidents. It goes without saying that pedestrians safety should always be top-of-mind when navigating roadways by foot.

As a tourist, be proactive and:

  • Try to avoid late night foot traffic, if possible. Consider taking public transportation instead.
  • Always use crosswalks for added protection when crossing the street.
  • Wear reflective clothing when traveling at night and consider packing a flashlight and bringing it with you on walks for increased visibility.

INCREASING PEDESTRIAN SAFETY FOR LOCAL SAN DIEGO RESIDENTS

Of course, pedestrian accidents can happen even if you’ve lived in a city for years, especially when it comes to children.

To increase pedestrian safety, the National Highway Traffic Administration (NHTSA) has put together community resources to increase neighborhood safety. In addition, the NHTSA and the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) have put together the Safe Routes to School Program (SRSP) to increase walking safety. Schools, neighborhood groups, community service liaisons and safety advocates are encouraged to put the program into action to increase foot traffic safety, especially near schools where pedestrians are always frequently in circulation. For more information about the SRSP program, click here.

WHEN PEDESTRIAN ACCIDENTS OCCUR

Pedestrians who have been injured in a car accident can seek legal representation for lost wages, medical bills and pain and suffering. Contact a personal injury attorney specializing in pedestrian injuries to understand your legal rights. The call is completely FREE and we don’t collect until we win your case. Call now, 24/7: 1-858-551-2090