Choose A Firm That Will Stand Firm to Keep Pedestrians Safe!

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In 2012, 16.6% of traffic deaths in Louisiana were pedestrians.
– Center for Planning Excellence

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Pedestrian deaths rose to an all time high in 2012 since 2006, partly due to an increase of pedestrians opting to use alternative methods of transportation versus driving or even owning a car. Also in 2012, Louisiana had the 5th highest pedestrian fatality rate at 2.29 and 3rd highest for child pedestrian fatality rate at 1.43 in the country ( per 100,000 residents), according to a summary report on pedestrian fatality trends in Louisiana conducted by CPEX. Whether walking, jogging, are riding your bike, pedestrians rights vary by state.

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Drivers often operate vehicles as if they have seniority on the road versus pedestrians, however this is not the case. Each roadway occupant, whether driver or pedestrian, has rights and responsibilities that keep each safe. Pedestrian accidents can also be attributed to non-vehicle accidents, such as poorly maintained sidewalks that were reported previously. Call us for a free consultation today!

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Important Safety Reminders

For Pedestrians:

• Walk on a sidewalk or path when one is available.

• If no sidewalk or path is available, walk on the shoulder, facing traffic Stay alert; don’t be distracted by electronic devices, including smart phones, MP3 players, and other devices that take your eyes (and ears) off the road.

• Be cautious night and day when sharing the road with vehicles. Never assume a driver sees you (he or she could be distracted, under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs, or just not see you). Make eye contact with drivers as they approach.

• Be predictable. Cross streets at crosswalks or intersections when possible. This is where drivers expect pedestrians.

• If a crosswalk or intersection is not available, locate a well-lit area, wait for a gap in traffic that allows you enough time to cross safely, and continue to watch for traffic as you cross.

• Be visible. Wear bright clothing during the day, and wear reflective materials or use a flash light at night.

• Avoid alcohol and drugs when walking; they impair your judgment and coordination.

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For Drivers:

• Look for pedestrians everywhere. Pedestrians may not be walking where they should be or may be hard to see—especially in poor lit conditions, including dusk/dawn/night and poor weather.

• Always stop for pedestrians in the crosswalk or where pedestrian crosswalk signs are posted.

• Never pass vehicles stopped at a crosswalk. They may be stopped to allow pedestrians to cross the street.

• Slowdown and look for pedestrians. Be prepared to stop when turning or otherwise entering a crosswalk.

• Never drive under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.

• Follow the speed limit; slow down around pedestrians.

• Stay focused and slow down where children may be present, like school zones and neighborhoods.

— NHTSA’s Safety Countermeasures Division