Every time of day brings its own risks for pedestrians. Busy rush hour traffic increases the number of cars on the road, for example. What time of day accounts for the greatest danger for pedestrians?
Pedestrians out after dark are more likely to experience an accident.
Despite the fact that we drive significantly more often during daylight, nighttime accidents account for half of all pedestrian deaths. In fact, these accidents are three times as likely after dark compared to daylight. This makes dusk and night particularly dangerous times for pedestrians.
Darker conditions decrease driver visibility.
Not only can darker conditions make it difficult for drivers to see, but the glare of oncoming lights and the shifting light conditions experienced when passing between streetlights can also create additional challenges. LED streetlights and headlights can increase the glare that drivers experience. All this adds up to conditions that make it more difficult for drivers to see pedestrians and respond in time.
Alcohol use can create additional danger.
Alcohol use can be particularly dangerous, and a drink with dinner or an evening at the bar with friends can increase the risks that pedestrians face after dark. Around 17 percent of pedestrian crashes involve alcohol use by motorists, according to the Centers for Disease Control. While walking instead of driving may seem like a safe option, that can also put pedestrians at risk, with alcohol use on the part of pedestrians factoring into nearly half of pedestrian crashes.
Even with safety precautions like reflective clothing and sticking to well-lit walking routes, pedestrians may still experience harm as a result of drivers’ negligence. If that occurs, injured pedestrians may want to explore options to hold them responsible.