Bad crosswalks are a major reason why pedestrian accidents are on the rise throughout Kentucky and the US in general. When crosswalks are not designed or kept up properly, they can make accidents more likely, putting pedestrians in danger. Understanding how crosswalks affect safety is important to help reduce these risks.
Lack of visibility
Bad crosswalks often have poor visibility for both pedestrians and drivers. Crosswalks without good lighting make it hard for drivers to see pedestrians, especially at night or in bad weather. Poor signage or faded crosswalk lines can also make it harder for drivers to notice pedestrians, leading to more accidents.
Insufficient signaling
Good crosswalks need proper signals, like pedestrian traffic lights and warning signs. Without these signals, pedestrians may not know when it is safe to cross, and drivers may not know to slow down. Crosswalks with broken or missing signals can confuse, leading to accidents when drivers and pedestrians make wrong assumptions about who has the right-of-way.
Poor placement and design
Where a crosswalk is placed and how it is designed are also important for safety. Crosswalks placed far from intersections or in areas with fast-moving traffic increase the risk of accidents. A lack of pedestrian islands or curb extensions can make people feel unsafe, especially when crossing wide roads with heavy traffic. Crosswalks that do not consider people with mobility challenges can also increase the risk of accidents.
The importance of infrastructure improvements
Improving crosswalks can greatly reduce pedestrian accidents. Adding better lighting, clear signs, and signals that are easy to understand can make crosswalks safer for everyone. City planners should focus on pedestrian safety by designing crosswalks for all users, including children, older adults, and people with disabilities. Better crosswalks can help pedestrians and drivers share the road safely.
Investing in crosswalk improvements can make communities safer and more walkable. Fixing current issues can help protect pedestrians and create a safer environment. If you or a loved one has been injured by a negligent driver, the experienced personal injury lawyers at Edwards & Kautz Law Firm can help.