If you’ve been injured as a pedestrian in Allentown, you deserve to be compensated. Our compassionate team at the Slocum Firm is here to support you every step of the way.
In Allentown, certain areas are more prone to pedestrian accidents due to various factors such as high traffic volume, complex intersections, and limited visibility. Identifying these typical hotspots can provide valuable insights into where pedestrian safety is most at risk and help take proactive measures to avoid potential accidents.
The Allentown pedestrian accident lawyers from the Slocum Firm are dedicated to highlighting these critical areas to raise awareness and advocate for enhanced safety measures. Our goal is to help you understand the prevalent dangers and offer guidance on protecting yourself and your loved ones while navigating the city.
Through this detailed examination of pedestrian accident hotspots, we aim to empower you with the knowledge to stay safe and seek justice if you are involved in an accident.
Pennsylvania Pedestrian Accident Statistics
In 2020, Pennsylvania witnessed over 104,000 car accidents, with around 1,200 fatalities annually. Pedestrian accidents remain a significant concern statewide, with statistics underscoring the dangers those on foot face. According to recent data, pedestrian fatalities account for a substantial portion of traffic-related deaths in the state. For instance, in 2020, over 170 pedestrians were killed in traffic accidents across Pennsylvania, reflecting a worrying trend of increased vulnerability for walkers and runners. Additionally, thousands of pedestrians sustain injuries each year, ranging from minor to severe.
These figures underscore the critical need for enhanced safety measures and awareness to protect pedestrians and reduce the incidence of these often tragic accidents. Among the various risk factors for car accidents, intersections and other points of conflict on roadways pose significant dangers. If you find yourself involved in an accident at a high-risk intersection, seeking guidance from an Allentown personal injury lawyer can provide clarity on your legal options and help secure compensation for any injuries sustained.
Most Hazardous Intersections in Allentown
Pennsylvania Department of Transportation reported that roughly 46% of accidents in 2020 occurred at points of conflict where vehicles converge from different directions. These points of conflict typically include merges, intersections, and four-way stops. In the Lehigh Valley, several intersections have been identified as particularly hazardous. They include:
Route 309 and Tilghman Street
In 2020, the intersection of Route 309 and Tilghman Street recorded the highest number of accidents, totaling 169 incidents. Issues such as short on-ramps and limited visibility contributed to this high crash rate, with 110 individuals suffering injuries. PennDOT has initiated a multiyear project to redesign this intersection, starting in 2021, to improve safety.
19th Street and Tilghman Street
This intersection, known for its complex traffic patterns and multiple lanes, poses significant risks to pedestrians. The high volume of vehicles, combined with limited pedestrian signals, increases the likelihood of accidents. Enhancing pedestrian safety, such as improved signage and better lighting, is crucial to addressing these risks and preventing accidents at this busy intersection.
Route 22 and Route 191 Interchange
The interchange between Route 22 and Route 191 was the site of 93 accidents in 2020, resulting in 63 injuries. The unusual layout of this interchange, which requires quick lane changes and has a short exit ramp, has been identified as a contributing factor. While Pennsylvania evaluates potential improvements, specific plans for enhancing this interchange are still under review.
Route 309 and Center Valley Parkway
With 88 crashes reported in 2020, the intersection of Route 309 and Center Valley Parkway was the third most problematic, and it was the deadliest, with five fatalities. An additional 48 individuals were injured. Though concrete plans are still pending, PennDOT has allocated over $38 million to address this intersection. One proposed solution is an overpass to alleviate traffic congestion and reduce the accident rate.
Route 22 and 15th Street Interchange
Route 22 and 15th Street interchange suffers severe congestion, particularly during rush hours. Drivers often face gridlock while trying to accelerate to highway speeds. PennDOT has proposed widening the intersection, but a construction timeline has yet to be established.
Route 33 and Freemansburg Avenue Interchange
The Route 33 and Freemansburg Avenue interchange has seen a rise in accidents due to increased commercial activity and new developments. The area’s traffic has surged with new shopping centers and warehouses, leading to 63 crashes and 51 injuries in 2020. PennDOT has not yet announced any plans to modify this intersection.
Most Dangerous Roadways in Allentown
Certain roads in Allentown are notably more hazardous for pedestrians, largely due to high traffic volume, poor visibility, and insufficient pedestrian infrastructure.
Hamilton Boulevard
One such road is Hamilton Boulevard, a major thoroughfare with heavy traffic and frequent pedestrian accidents. The high speed of vehicles and the lack of adequate crosswalks in some areas contribute to the danger faced by pedestrians crossing or walking alongside this busy road. Despite efforts to improve safety, incidents on Hamilton Boulevard remain a serious concern for residents and local authorities.
Route 22
Additionally, the area around Route 22 presents substantial hazards for pedestrians. As a major highway, Route 22 experiences high-speed traffic and limited opportunities for safe pedestrian crossings. The road’s design, with its high-speed lanes and infrequent crosswalks, makes it challenging for pedestrians to navigate safely. While some areas have improved pedestrian infrastructure, ongoing vigilance, and enhancements are necessary to ensure pedestrian safety along this critical route.
Allentown Fairgrounds
Lastly, the vicinity of the Allentown Fairgrounds, particularly around Linden Street and 17th Street, is another high-risk area for pedestrians. The combination of event-related traffic, street congestion, and sporadic pedestrian crossings creates a dangerous environment. The influx of visitors during events further complicates pedestrian safety, making it essential to improve both traffic management and pedestrian awareness to mitigate the risk of accidents in this area.
Addressing these hazardous roads requires a multitargeted approach, including improved infrastructure, enhanced traffic control measures, and increased public awareness. By focusing on these critical areas, Allentown can work towards creating a safer environment for pedestrians and reducing the frequency of dangerous incidents.
Addressing Points of Conflict
PennDOT employs various strategies to mitigate accidents at points of conflict, including installing roundabouts at four-way stops, enhanced signage, dedicated merge lanes, and reduced speed limits. Despite these measures, not all accidents can be prevented. If you experience an accident at a hazardous location, consulting with an Allentown personal injury attorney may prompt PennDOT to review and potentially address dangerous road conditions to enhance safety and prevent future incidents.
Traffic Safety and Vulnerable Road Users
When addressing traffic safety, it is essential to focus on those facing the most significant risks. This includes individuals who are not protected by vehicle safety features, such as pedestrians, as well as older adults, people with disabilities, and those in lower-income communities. Analyzing the risks for these groups highlights significant disparities in pedestrian safety.
- Income and Pedestrian Fatality Rates: Economic status profoundly influences pedestrian safety. Areas with lower median incomes experience higher rates of pedestrian fatalities. Research shows that pedestrians are far more likely to die in lower-income neighborhoods. For example, while only 17% of the population lives in areas where median incomes are below $50,000, these areas account for 30% of pedestrian deaths. The fatality rate in neighborhoods with incomes between $15,000 and $25,000 is over four times greater compared to those in wealthier areas, highlighting a stark disparity in safety.
- Racial Disparities: Racial and ethnic minorities, particularly American Indian and Alaska Native populations, face disproportionately high risks while walking. Despite comprising just 13% of the population in metropolitan areas, people of color represent nearly 22% of pedestrian fatalities. Black Americans, in particular, are killed at over twice the rate of white individuals, while Native Americans face more than four times the fatality rate of their white counterparts. This disparity extends to injuries as well, with people of color experiencing significantly higher rates of emergency department visits for pedestrian-related injuries compared to white individuals.
- Age Factors: Older adults are particularly vulnerable to severe injuries and fatalities in pedestrian accidents. Individuals aged 50 to 65 and those over 75 are at a higher risk of being struck and killed while walking. For older adults, what might be a minor injury for younger people can result in severe harm or death. Additionally, as mobility declines, older adults may become more socially isolated, exacerbating adverse health outcomes and diminishing their quality of life.
Focusing on these high-risk groups is crucial in developing targeted safety measures and interventions to reduce pedestrian accidents and ensure a safer environment for all road users.
Safe Streets for All
Allentown’s Safe Streets for All project represents a significant commitment to enhancing pedestrian and traffic safety across the city. This initiative addresses various safety concerns by implementing comprehensive measures to reduce accidents and improve overall road conditions. The project focuses on several key areas, including redesigning dangerous intersections, adding pedestrian crossings and signage, and enhancing traffic calming measures. By addressing these critical points, the Safe Streets for All project seeks to create a more secure environment for pedestrians and drivers.
One of the primary goals of the Safe Streets for All project is to reduce the number of traffic-related injuries and fatalities, particularly those involving pedestrians. The project aims to make all streets safer and more navigable through strategic improvements such as better lighting, more apparent road markings, and more visible pedestrian signals. Additionally, the initiative promotes greater awareness among drivers and pedestrians about the importance of road safety and mutual respect.
The project also emphasizes the importance of community involvement and feedback. By engaging with residents, city planners, and traffic safety experts, the initiative ensures that the changes are effective and reflect the community’s needs. This collaborative approach helps to identify the most critical areas for improvement. It ensures that the safety measures implemented will have a meaningful impact on reducing accidents and enhancing overall road safety in Allentown.
Steps to Take After a Pedestrian Accident
To protect your right to compensation after a pedestrian accident, it’s essential to take several key steps to ensure your claim is well-documented and effectively supported. Here’s a guide to help you navigate the process:
- Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, getting a thorough medical evaluation right after the accident is essential. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent but could have profound implications. Prompt medical attention helps document your injuries and establishes a link between the accident and your health issues, which is critical for your claim.
- Document the Accident Scene: Gather evidence from the accident scene if possible. Take photographs of the location, your injuries, and any damages. Collect contact information from witnesses and get the police report. This documentation can be invaluable in establishing liability and supporting your claim.
- Preserve Evidence: Keep all accident records, including medical bills, expense receipts, and correspondence with insurance companies. This evidence will support your claim for both economic and non-economic damages.
- Follow Medical Advice: Adhere to your doctor’s recommendations and attend all follow-up appointments. This demonstrates that you are taking your recovery seriously and can impact the credibility of your claim.
- Avoid Discussing Your Case Publicly: Refrain from discussing the accident or your injuries on social media or with people other than your attorney. Statements made online or to others can be misinterpreted and potentially used against you in your claim.
- Consult a Personal Injury Lawyer: Contact an experienced pedestrian accident lawyer immediately. An attorney can provide crucial legal advice, help you understand your rights, and guide you through the claims process. They will also be able to handle negotiations with insurance companies and ensure that you receive fair compensation.
- File a Claim Promptly: Be aware of the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim in your state. In Pennsylvania, you generally have two years from the accident date to file a claim. Missing this deadline could result in losing your right to seek compensation.
By taking these steps, you can strengthen your case and protect your right to compensation, ensuring you receive the support you need during your recovery.
Discuss Your Case With an Allentown Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
If you or a loved one has been involved in a pedestrian accident in Allentown, securing experienced legal representation is crucial for obtaining the justice and compensation you deserve. At the Slocum Firm, we understand the complexities of pedestrian accident cases and are committed to advocating for your rights. Our dedicated team of Allentown pedestrian accident lawyers will work tirelessly to build a strong case, ensuring that every detail is meticulously handled and you receive the maximum compensation for your injuries and losses.
Don’t let the legal challenges of a pedestrian accident add to your stress and uncertainty. Reach out to us today to schedule a free consultation and begin the journey toward recovery. Contact The Slocum Firm at (570) 209-7376 and let our skilled team guide you through the process, providing the support and expertise you need to secure the compensation you deserve.
