There is no place like the interior of Alaska in the summer bringing, as it does, warmer weather and twenty-four hours of sunlight. Along with the preferable weather summer brings, interior Alaska also sees an uptick in pedestrian activity as the winter’s inhospitable temperatures no longer banish people to the insides of their motor vehicles. However, along with more foot traffic comes the greater likelihood of distracted walking.
Distracted Pedestrians: The Statistics
Studies show distracted walking injuries are on the rise. Just as with distracted driving, the culprit for distracted walking is most often cell phone use. When you are using your cell phone, you aren’t paying attention to your surroundings – putting both yourself and others at risk. The most recent statistics show:
- In 2019, an estimated 7,668 pedestrians died in traffic and non-traffic incidents, with 6,205 of those killed in traffic crashes on public roads
- More than 17% of all traffic deaths were pedestrians
- 45-74 years old’s have 20% or more pedestrian deaths as a percentage of all traffic fatalities
The Midnight Sun Festival
The Midnight Sun Festival, Alaska’s largest single-day event, is held annually in Fairbanks. This year it occurs on June 18th. 1st and 2nd Avenues are closed to vehicular traffic. Thousands of people attend the free 12-hour street fair. Exhibitors offer Alaskan merchandise along with local food and services. There is even live music and gold panning.
If you plan on attending The Midnight Sun Festival this year, remember:
- Walk on the sidewalk. When walking where streets haven’t been closed to vehicular traffic, walk on the sidewalk. If there’s no sidewalk, walk facing traffic.
- Follow the rules of the road. Always follow the rules of the road. Obey all traffic signs and signals.
- Use crosswalks. Cross streets at crosswalks. In the situation where no crosswalk is available and your view is blocked, move to a place where you can view oncoming traffic.
- Don’t drink and walk. Avoid alcohol consumption when walking.
- Heads up, phone down. Avoid cell phone use and wearing headphones while walking.
This is part one of a two part series. See: Part Two.
The Merdes Law Firm has been helping injured Alaskans for more than 30 years. It’s who we are. And while we hope you never need us … We’re here if you do. ~ Ward Merdes
Info Source: NSC and ExploreFairbanks
Photo Source: AdobeStock
