Millions of automobiles travel on the road every day, and many people walk and bicycle alongside them. While we are rushing towards our office, home, or any other place, we witness many accidents. Pedestrians get hit by cars, and many of them lose their lives. Every year, thousands of pedestrians face injuries and even die in a crash.
State Highway Safety Offices (SHSOs) reports show that around 6,721 pedestrians lost their lives in 2020 on US roads. When any vehicle collides with a person walking by, the result can be life-changing. It is imperative to understand the risk and take necessary precautions to avoid such pedestrian accidents. They are vulnerable road users, and their safety should be the top priority.
An experienced Pedestrian Accident Lawyer will be at your side to do everything that is required, such as investigate the case, gather essential materials, analyze all of the losses caused by the accident, appeal for maximum compensation, and more.
Pedestrians Are At A Higher Risk Of Being In An Accident
Car crashes with any pedestrian can result in life-changing and fatal results. It has been observed that the pedestrian is at a higher risk of being injured as compared to people inside the vehicle. The reason being, pedestrians are more exposed and do not have any type of protection, unlike the people in the car.
Every year, many people face severe injuries, losses, and damages due to such crashes in the United States. The statistics for Pedestrian Fatality Rate per 100,000 population indicated in NHTSA cannot be ignored. Hence, knowing the risk factors can help in reducing the chances of being in an accident.
In such incidents, a variety of risk factors are involved, and it is everyone’s responsibility to be aware of them. Pedestrians should use sidewalks and crosswalks with extreme caution, and any carelessness on their part should be avoided in order to make our roads safer for all passengers.
Be Extra Cautious At Night
There are more chances to miss noticing a pedestrian on the road at night, because of the vehicle’s light, street lights, and other factors. Low light conditions are one of the most common factors in pedestrian accidents. It has been proved that more than half of all the pedestrian fatalities occur during the nighttime.
Vehicle drivers should be cautious while driving at night; at the same time, pedestrians should also take preventive measures like not walking in the complete dark, wearing contrasting clothes to be visible from far, etc. Vehicle drivers should also keep a sharp eye on blind spots.
Avoid Driving After Consuming Any Alcohol Or Drugs
Many accidents take place because the driver was under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Cocaine, marijuana, and various other drugs can make your brain numb. Many people who cause drunk driving accidents are found driving under the influence of these drugs.
A crash can be life-threatening for the pedestrian, and it is one of the leading causes of pedestrian fatalities. The driver might not be in a state to control the car, and it increases the chances of an accident. The driver might not be able to judge the speed and distance of the car, which is extremely dangerous for the pedestrians. It is essential to be aware of the surroundings and follow all traffic rules to avoid such accidents.
Most Crashes Happened Far From Crosswalks And Other Safe Places For Pedestrians
Most of the time, people choose to walk on the side of the road instead of using a sidewalk. It has been proved that such areas are more prone to accidents. The pedestrians should use crosswalks and sidewalks to stay safe while walking on the roads. Also, many people try to jaywalk, which is extremely dangerous. Entering a busy road or walking too close to the driveway can turn fatal. Vehicle drivers never expect a pedestrian to enter a driving space and don’t give much attention. Such negligence can result in crashes. Therefore, it is better to take all precautionary measures.
Distraction While Driving Can Cause Crashes
It has been proved that many accidents take place because the driver was not paying attention to the road. The driver might be distracted by various things like using a cell phone, adjusting the radio, eating, or talking to passengers. It is essential to focus on the road while driving to avoid such accidents. Also, pedestrians should not use phones or headphones while walking on the road as they might not hear an approaching vehicle.
Be it any type of crash, pedestrians are more prone to face fatal injuries. Thus, it is advised to take all the precautionary measures while walking and driving. He can file a personal injury claim and obtain compensation if he is harmed as a result of someone else’s negligence. An attorney can help you understand the legal process and increase your chances of getting maximum compensation.
