When Nancy Sinatra sang, “These boots are made for walkin’,” she most certainly wasn’t referring to Louisiana. Because for a state shaped like a boot, it’s not pedestrian-friendly.
In fact, Louisiana has the third highest rate of pedestrian deaths in the United States, just slightly behind New Mexico and Arizona.
Be seen to be safe
Louisiana has plenty of southern charm. Its beautiful landscapes are steeped in a rich and varied culture, and its lively cities combine old-world beauty with modern innovation. However, pedestrian safety is a concern as fatalities increase. In 2022, there were 1,226 pedestrian injuries and 183 fatalities in the state.
The main cause of these accidents is alcohol, but other factors contribute to the high number of injuries and fatalities, such as:
- Reckless driving
- Distracted driving
- Lack of sidewalks
- Poorly lit streets
- Heavy tourist traffic
Louisiana is taking steps to improve the safety of everyone on the road with its complete streets program that includes:
- Sidewalks
- Bike lanes or broad paved shoulders
- Roundabouts
- Frequent crosswalks
- Pedestrian signals
Still, progress takes time. Therefore, here are some tips to keep yourself safe when you’re walking in Louisiana:
- Stay visible by wearing bright or reflective clothing, especially at night or during times of low light.
- Always cross at designated crosswalks and obey traffic signals.
- Avoid distractions, such as looking at your phone or having earbuds in both ears.
- Make eye contact and ensure drivers see you before you cross in front of them.
- If you are walking in an area with no sidewalks, make sure to walk on the side of the road facing oncoming traffic.
Sadly, accidents can happen. And when they involve a vehicle and a pedestrian, the results are often catastrophic. If you or a loved one has been injured, you may be able to receive compensation to provide financial security during the recovery period.