Pedestrian detection devices lack effectiveness

Many people in Florida walk to various destinations. You may be someone who likes to take a quick walk to a nearby store for an errand or to the beach for fun. Whatever the case, you may consider walking a good way to exercise and get to your intended destination. However, if your travels have you walking close to, on or across roadways, you know you face serious safety risks.

Though you always do your best to remain a conscientious pedestrian, you also know that accidents can happen in the blink of an eye. You may have felt somewhat reassured when you learned that more vehicle manufacturers are using pedestrian detection devices, but how reliable are such devices?

Lacking in effectiveness

Though having pedestrian detection devices in vehicles is certainly a step in the right direction, studies have found that these devices do not have the level of effectiveness for which many would hope. In fact, these devices provide little to no assistance in a variety of situations that could cause a pedestrian accident, including the following scenarios:

• Pedestrian detection devices have a much lower chance of detecting and preventing a collision when a vehicle travels at or over 30 mph.
• If a child suddenly darts out in front of a vehicle, a collision is nearly 90% likely to occur, even if the vehicle is traveling at just 20 mph.
• After dark, when most pedestrian accidents occur, the devices do not detect pedestrians.
• When vehicles make a right turn and encounter a pedestrian, the device typically does not stop a collision.

Though these devices obviously have significant flaws, many drivers may depend more heavily on them to keep them safe, especially if they think the devices are foolproof. As a result, a driver may not pay as much attention because he or she believes that a detection device will alert the driver or stop the vehicle before a collision occurs. Unfortunately, that is not always the case.

What if someone hits you?

Though you may love walking for various reasons, a pedestrian accident could change your life. If you do find yourself involved in an incident in which a vehicle strikes you, you may have reason to file a personal injury claim against the driver considered at fault. Even with advancements in technology, drivers have an obligation to pay attention and drive safely. A lawsuit may allow you to hold the liable driver responsible for negligent or reckless behaviors.