The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) provides startling statistics on Pedestrian safety.  In 2003, 4,749 pedestrians were killed in traffic crashes, 70,000 were injured.  On average, a pedestrian is killed about every 2 hours, and injured every 8 minutes.

A pedestrian is defined as anybody on foot (including persons in wheelchairs, on roller blades, skateboards, etc.).  Drivers are required to use caution around pedestrians, but pedestrians are also expected to follow some laws.

Where sidewalks are provided, they need to be used.  Where sidewalks are not provided, pedestrians should walk only on the shoulder on the left side of the road, facing traffic.  No pedestrians are permitted to walk on interstate or freeway roads, or ramps connecting to them.  Pedestrians are expected to cross the road at crosswalks, and must yield to traffic if not using a crosswalk.  When not using a crosswalk, pedestrians should cross at right angles, or the shortest route to the other side.  Pedestrians are expected to use caution when entering the street to cross the road.  Do not leave the curb suddenly and run into the path of a vehicle so the vehicle does not have time to stop.  Use crosswalk signals where applicable.

Pedestrians are at greater risk in the event of an accident because they have no protection against vehicles.  It is our responsibility as pedestrians as well as motorists to use caution, follow laws as well as common sense so we may be as safe as possible.

If you have been involved in a pedestrian accident, you may need to talk with an personal injury attorney in Utah.  The Advocates have lawyers available 24 hours a day to answer your questions.