Houston’s Most Dangerous Crosswalks for Children
A recent study revealed the most hazardous intersections in Houston for children walking or biking to school, according to an ABC 13 News report. The research, conducted by Rice University’s Baker Institute, analyzed pedestrian accident data to identify high-risk areas for young pedestrians.
Top dangerous intersections in Houston for pedestrians
The Baker Institute’s study reviewed 629 accidents involving children and vehicles in Houston from 2018 to 2023. These accidents resulted in 159 serious injuries and 21 fatalities. Based on this data, the researchers highlighted four intersections as especially dangerous:
- Alief – Beechnut Street near Wilcrest Drive
- Gulfton – Glenmont Drive from Renwick Drive to Royalton Street
- Sunnyside – The Sunnyside Square Mile
- Gulfton – Hillcroft Avenue
What makes these intersections so hazardous?
The study uncovered several factors contributing to the danger at these intersections:
- Unsignalized driveways near busy intersections
- Wide streets with up to seven lanes
- Fast-moving traffic
- Pedestrians crossing streets between intersections
- Crosswalks on high-speed roads without traffic lights
- High rates of drunk driving in certain areas
- Longer travel distances to hospitals after pedestrian accidents
What can Houston do to improve pedestrian safety?
Researchers at the Baker Institute proposed several solutions to reduce pedestrian accidents, especially those involving children:
- Build or improve sidewalks on dangerous streets: Many areas in Houston lack proper sidewalks, forcing pedestrians to walk alongside busy roads. By constructing new sidewalks and upgrading existing ones, the city can provide safe, dedicated spaces for pedestrians, reducing the risk of accidents. Proper sidewalks also ensure that pedestrians, especially children, aren’t forced into traffic or unsafe areas.
- Install more visible crosswalks: Crosswalks are critical for pedestrian safety, but they must be easy for drivers to see. The study recommends installing well-marked, highly visible crosswalks, ideally equipped with signs, reflective paint, or lighting. Enhanced crosswalks make drivers more aware of pedestrians crossing, especially in high-traffic areas or near schools.
- Lower speed limits on streets prone to speeding-related accidents: Speeding is one of the leading causes of pedestrian accidents, especially in areas where drivers don’t expect pedestrians. Reducing speed limits on roads with high pedestrian activity forces drivers to slow down and pay more attention, giving them more time to react to pedestrians. Lower speed limits also reduce the severity of injuries if an accident does occur.
- Increase police enforcement in high-risk areas: Enforcing traffic laws, such as speeding and failing to yield to pedestrians, can significantly reduce accidents. Increased police presence in areas known for frequent pedestrian incidents serves as a deterrent for reckless driving. This includes targeting distracted or impaired drivers who are more likely to cause serious pedestrian injuries.
- Educate drivers about the dangers pedestrians, especially children, face: Public awareness campaigns can help drivers understand the unique risks pedestrians face. By educating the public about the importance of slowing down in pedestrian-heavy areas, yielding at crosswalks, and watching for children, Houston can encourage safer driving habits and reduce accidents.
These changes would benefit all pedestrians, not just children, and are crucial as Houston continues to have one of the highest pedestrian accident rates in the country.
How common are pedestrian accidents in Houston?
Houston has become one of the most dangerous cities for pedestrians. According to the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), in 2022, there were 115 pedestrian fatalities in the city, an 8% increase from the previous year. Harris County, which includes Houston, recorded 177 pedestrian deaths in 2022, the highest number in five years.
Why you need a Houston pedestrian accident attorney
Pedestrian accidents in Houston may seem straightforward, with a driver often at fault. However, getting the compensation you deserve isn’t always easy. In Texas’ fault-based insurance system, securing a fair settlement often requires legal help. Insurance companies frequently try to minimize payouts, making it difficult for victims to get the money they need for medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses.
That’s when an experienced Houston pedestrian accident lawyer at Smith & Hassler can make a meaningful difference in the outcome of your case. Our dedicated legal team knows Texas law inside and out. We fight to get results for our clients, including securing an $800,000 settlement for a pedestrian injured in an intersection accident.
Let us help you. Contact us today to schedule a free case evaluation. We have four offices across Texas, including three in Houston. You pay nothing unless we win your case.