Too many Seniors are hit by cars in Fairfax County
NBC Washington reports that senior pedestrian fatalities in Virginia doubled in 2019.
The number of elderly pedestrians killed Virginia is alarming. According to preliminary figures reported by the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles, 35 elderly pedestrians were hit and died in 2019. That's is more than double the 17 who died in 2018. Fairfax County had the highest number of fatalities among pedestrians aged 66 and above in the state. The total number of pedestrian deaths in Virginia did not increase significantly year over year. Only the total number of pedestrians older than 60 who died dramatically increased. The accidents are a concerning trend as our senior population continues to grow and remind us to make sure your elderly loved one is safe.
Seniors who have a hearing or sight impairment can be unsafe when they are walking near traffic or crossing the street. According to AAA, most senior pedestrian fatalities happen in low light on urban roads around sunset and sunrise. Most victims are struck and killed within five miles of their home.
To make sure seniors are safe during twilight hours, AAA recommends wearing reflective or visible clothing when walking and to only cross at an intersection or a clearly marked crosswalk. Morgan Dean, Senior Specialist for Public and Government Affairs of AAA Mid-Atlantic, says to always "make eye contact with (a driver) before stepping onto the roadway."
AAA reports that 76% of senior pedestrian fatalities in Virginia occurred on urban roads. Most of the fatal accidents also occurred around sunset and sunrise, when drivers and senior pedestrians may struggle to see due to low lighting.
AAA also advises drivers "to always yield to pedestrians in a crosswalk, not to pass other vehicles stopped at crosswalks, and to be mindful when pulling in and out of driveways."
As our senior population is increasing in Virginia, drivers should remember that older pedestrians can be limited by sight and hearing, and taking precautoins, both as caregivers and as drivers, to help keep our seniors safer. Please be reminded to drive safely and to make sure when walking that you are visible to drivers.
https://www.nbcwashington.com/news/local/senior-pedestrian-deaths-have-doubled-in-virginia/2217055/