As the holidays approach, many people will be taking to the road and traveling to visit loved ones. More cars on the road typically means more accidents, causing injuries and even death for motorists and pedestrians.
According to a recent report by 10 Investigates, there are five Knoxville intersections that are associated with the majority of pedestrian crashes. Within the last five years, there have been 553 pedestrians struck by vehicles in the following intersections:
- Cumberland and Melrose Place/17th Street
- Highland Drive and North Broadway
- North Broadway and 5th Avenue
- Cumberland Avenue and 19th Street
- I40 and North Broadway
Additional areas that pose a threat to pedestrian safety is the crosswalk at Sutherland Ave. near Renford Drive and Concord St., as well as Clinch Ave. between the Knoxville Convention Center and the Holiday Inn.
In an effort to reduce injuries and fatalities, there are a number of steps motorists and pedestrians can take to make the roads safer.
Safety Tips for Motorists
- Be vigilant: When operating a motor vehicle, you have an increased responsibility to look for children at play or people who are walking, running and biking. Do not engage in activities that cause a distraction, such as using a cellphone or eating while driving.
- Do not speed: Obey posted speed limits. Speeding increases the impact of collisions as well as the potential for fatalities.
- Yield to pedestrians: When pedestrians are at a crosswalk, you must yield. Slow down prior to the crosswalk and prepare to stop. Never pass cars stopped at crosswalks. • Do not drive while impaired: This includes drugs, alcohol and even fatigued driving.
Safety Tips for Pedestrians
- Stay off your cellphone: Avoid distractions from your smartphone while walking.
- Do not use headphones while walking: Remain alert by listening to what is happening around you.
- Follow traffic signals: Use crosswalks and obey traffic rules.
- Never assume: Do not assume a driver will yield to you. Ensure eye contact with the driver before stepping out into the crosswalk.
If you have been hurt by a negligent driver, the Knoxville car accident attorneys at Greg Coleman are committed to seeking justice for the injured. We will provide you with a free consultation to review your claim and determine if you have a case that entitles compensation. Our personal injury attorneys work on a contingency fee basis and charge no fees unless you receive a favorable outcome.
Call (865) 247-0080 or fill out a Free Case Evaluation form to begin.
