Alabama Ranked 15th Worst State For Pedestrian Safety
Alabama is the 15th most deadly state in the nation for pedestrians according to a new study by Smart Growth America. The Yellowhammer State’s annual pedestrian fatality rate is 234 per 100,000 people. Mississippi is 6th. 11 of the Top 20 states for pedestrian injuries and deaths are in the south.
Between 10 and 15 pedestrians are killed in traffic accidents each year in Tuscaloosa County. While exact year-over-year figures fluctuate, local law enforcement agencies consistently record high numbers of pedestrian injuries and fatalities along major thoroughfares, intersections, and near the University of Alabama campus.
Some of the most dangerous roads for those walking are Highway 69 South, 15th Street, University Boulevard, Skyland Boulevard, and McFarland Boulevard.
The Tuscaloosa Police Department urges caution as many of accidents are exacerbated by poor visibility, jaywalking, and lack of bright or reflective clothing at night.
The National Safety Council (NSC) and Tuscaloosa/Northport Police continually caution pedestrians to stay alert, maximize visibility, and use designated crosswalks to avoid the rising rate of traffic-related injuries and fatalities.
Distracted walking is every bit as dangerous as distracted driving. Put down the phone and keep your head on a swivel, whether your driving or walking. Even if you are at a crosswalk or an intersection with a traffic light or stop sign, never assume that a driver sees you or is going to stop.
With summertime here children will dart into the street after a ball so motorists are warned to slow down in neighborhoods. And if you are heading to the beach for the 4th, be alert crossing streets crowded with people and vehicle.
The Birmingham/Hoover metro areas are listed as the 39th among the most dangerous metro areas in the nation. That area has a 2.9 deaths per 100,000 annual average.
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