When people in Washington get behind the wheel, they may be afraid of encountering another driver who is drunk or texting while driving. While these behaviors pose significant dangers, they are not the only types of negligent behavior that can lead to serious car accidents. Drowsy driving, or operating a vehicle when too tired to do so safely, poses a serious threat to others on the road. Each year, the National Safety Council implements Drowsy Driving Prevention Week to draw attention to the serious impairments associated with driving while drowsy. In 2020, the week will be November 1-8.
Pedestrians face growing danger on the road
Pedestrians in Washington may face growing threats on the road. Across the country, there were approximately 6,590 pedestrians killed in motor vehicle accidents in 2019, a significant increase from previous years. According to the Governors Highway Safety Administration, this marks a 60% increase in pedestrian fatalities in the 10 years since 2009. Pedestrians faced more risks than others; other types of traffic deaths rose only 2% overall in the same time period.
