In 2009, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported that 4,092 pedestrians were killed in crashes with motor vehicles and 59,000 were injured. These numbers represent a 22 percent drop from 1998. However, an unknown number of pedestrian crashes requiring emergency room treatment are not included in these reported fatalities and injuries because they did not occur in a public roadway (i.e., crash occurred in a parking lot or driveway). Some of these fatalities are caused by both driver and pedestrian negligence. Drivers have a duty to operate their vehicles in a reasonably safe manner to avoid injury to others. This includes keeping an eye out for pedestrians and properly yielding when necessary. But that doesn’t mean pedestrians can’t be extra careful and avoid an accident even when poor driving is involved. Here are some sound tips aimed at kids, but which parents should take heed also.

Brought to you by:SafeKids.org | Open in a New Window

Enjoyed this article? Join 40,000+ subscribers to the ZME Science newsletter. Subscribe now!