Dothan, AL : Pedestrian deaths, accidents on the rise on Wednesday, March 29th 2017

With sunny skies and warmer temperatures in the forecast, many individuals may consider taking a stroll to their destination, instead of driving their automobile.

They may want to reconsider that idea.

“We have just received the latest information regarding our 2016 crash reports,” said Dothan Police Lt. Scott Long. “Last year we had approximately three pedestrian deaths. However, over the years we have responded to several non-fatal accidents involving pedestrians.”

According to Long, a majority of pedestrian related accidents are caused by underestimating.

“We have individuals who are trying to cross extremely busy highways, such as Montgomery Highway and the Ross Clark Circle,” Long said. “Crossing a highly traveled highway without using an intersection could be extremely dangerous. I believe a lot of these accidents are caused by pedestrians believing they can estimate just how much time they have to cross before the vehicle passes. That is impossible.”

Other contributing factors to pedestrian related accidents include pedestrians being distracted.

“Talking on a cell phone or listening to ear buds is not something a pedestrian should be doing,” Long said. “If a pedestrian is distracted, anything can happen. They can’t hear what is going on around them, and a majority of the time, if they are on the phone, they are not focusing on anything going on around them. An additional factor that could increase pedestrians being involved in an accident is the pedestrian is not wear light clothing. If a pedestrian is wearing dark clothing at night, it is impossible for a motorist to see that pedestrian, until that motorist is right on top of them.”

Long also reminds everyone associated with the dangers related to walking while under the influence of alcohol.

“In the past, we have had individuals walk while under the influence instead of driving a motor vehicle,” Long said. “Although many pedestrians believe this is the best thing to do, it is still illegal. If someone is walking under the influence, that individual can be arrested and charged with public intoxication. Individuals who have been drinking tend to stagger and fall down, becoming a hazard on the roads. Over the years, arresting individuals for public intoxication has probably saved many lives.”

Long reminds all pedestrians to always walk facing the traffic. This allows pedestrians to see oncoming traffic. Also, pedestrians should be several feet away from the highway to help ensure their safety.

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Pedestrian deaths, accidents on the rise