Causes of Fatal Pedestrian Accidents and Pedestrian Injuries
Pedestrian accidents are a significant concern worldwide, leading to numerous fatalities and injuries annually. Various factors contribute to these accidents, highlighting the need for comprehensive understanding and relevant interventions. Understanding the causes of pedestrian accidents is crucial to preventing and reducing the number of pedestrian injuries and deaths each year.
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At Cantor Grana Buckner Bucci, we specialize in handling pedestrian accident cases. We have a team of pedestrian accident lawyers who deeply understand the nuances of the law and are well-versed in dealing with the complexities that often arise in accident cases. We provide expert legal representation, working tirelessly to ensure the rights of accident victims are protected and they receive the compensation they deserve. If you or a loved one has been involved in a pedestrian accident, we’re here to help. Contact us today for a free consultation.
What Are The Most Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents?
Left-Hand Turns
Vehicles making left-hand turns pose a significant risk to pedestrians. Drivers turning left are often more focused on navigating the intersection, watching for oncoming traffic, or negotiating the turn than on looking for pedestrians. This lapse in attention can lead to devastating accidents if a pedestrian is crossing the street simultaneously. Additionally, the design of certain intersections may create blind spots, further increasing the chances of a collision with a pedestrian. It’s important for both motorists and pedestrians to exercise extra caution at intersections where left-hand turns are common.
Driver Distraction
Many pedestrian accidents are due to driver distraction. Common distractions include mobile phone use, changing the radio, eating, or attending to children. This can lead to drivers failing to notice pedestrians until it’s too late. This is especially problematic in urban areas and school zones. Laws against distracted driving exist, but it remains a persistent issue. Stay focused on the road and be aware of your surroundings for pedestrian safety.
Pedestrian Distraction
Pedestrians can also be distracted, which can contribute to accidents. Texting, listening to music, or crossing the street while talking on the phone can all distract pedestrians from potential hazards. It’s important for pedestrians to remain aware of their surroundings and avoid distractions while walking near traffic.
Failure To Yield The Right-Of-Way
Drivers who fail to yield the right-of-way to pedestrians at crosswalks or intersections are a common cause of accidents. This can occur due to driver distraction, drivers being in a hurry, or disregarding traffic signals and laws. It’s essential for drivers to be aware of and yield to pedestrians when required by law.
Poor Visibility
Poor visibility is another major factor contributing to pedestrian accidents. Drivers may struggle to see pedestrians, especially at night or in adverse weather conditions. Pedestrians can also have difficulty seeing vehicles coming towards them if they are wearing dark clothing or crossing outside of designated areas. It’s important for both drivers and pedestrians to take steps to improve visibility, such as using reflective gear or turning on headlights when necessary.
Impaired Driving
Impaired drivers pose a significant threat to pedestrians. Alcohol and drugs can severely impair a driver’s ability to react quickly and accurately, making them more likely to cause accidents involving pedestrians. It’s crucial for drivers to never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Lack Of Infrastructure
The lack of proper infrastructure, such as sidewalks, crosswalks, or pedestrian signals, can also contribute to pedestrian accidents. Without designated areas for pedestrians to walk and cross the road safely, they may be forced to share the road with vehicles, increasing their risk of being involved in an accident.
Rolling stops
Rolling stops are another common issue in areas without proper infrastructure, where drivers fail to come to a complete stop at intersections or crosswalks. This puts pedestrians at risk as they may assume that the vehicle will stop and begin crossing the street, only to be hit by the vehicle.
Wearing Dark Clothes at Night
Pedestrians walking at night should take extra precautions to improve their visibility to drivers. Wearing dark or non-reflective clothing can make it difficult for drivers to see pedestrians, especially in poorly lit areas. It’s important for pedestrians to wear light-colored or reflective clothing when walking at night to increase their chances of being seen by drivers.
Poor Weather Conditions
Poor weather conditions like rain, snow, or fog can also contribute to pedestrian accidents. These conditions can make it difficult for drivers to see pedestrians and may also affect their ability to stop suddenly. Both drivers and pedestrians should exercise extra caution in poor weather, and pedestrians should wear appropriate clothing to increase visibility.
Speeding
Speeding is a common cause of all types of accidents, including pedestrian accidents. Drivers who are speeding have less time to react to unexpected situations, making them more likely to hit pedestrians. It’s crucial for drivers to obey speed limits and slow down in areas with high foot traffic.
Unfortunately, serious and even fatal pedestrian accidents occur far too often. By understanding the most common causes of pedestrian accidents, both drivers and pedestrians can take steps to prevent them from happening.
How Can We Prevent Pedestrian Accidents?
Preventing pedestrian accident injuries and pedestrian fatalities requires a multifaceted approach involving both motorists and pedestrians. Here are some tips for preventing pedestrian accidents:
Follow traffic laws: Both drivers and pedestrians must follow traffic laws, including speed limits, yielding the right-of-way, and obeying signals.
Stay alert: Drivers should stay focused on the road at all times, while pedestrians should avoid distractions such as texting or listening to music while walking near traffic.
Be visible: Pedestrians should wear light-colored or reflective clothing when walking at night, and drivers should use headlights in poor visibility conditions.
Practice extra caution at intersections: Intersections are high-risk areas for pedestrian accidents, so both drivers and pedestrians should exercise extra caution when navigating them.
Avoid impaired driving: Drivers should never drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol, and pedestrians should avoid walking while impaired.
Advocate for better infrastructure: Proper sidewalks, crosswalks, and pedestrian signals can greatly improve pedestrian safety. Advocating for these improvements in your community can help prevent pedestrian deaths and accidents.
How Can a Personal Injury Lawyer Help?
Expert Guidance: Our personal injury lawyers provide expert guidance through the complex legal process, ensuring you understand your rights and options.
Investigation: Your lawyer will thoroughly investigate the accident to determine liability and gather evidence to support your case.
Negotiation: Your lawyer will negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf to ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries.
Litigation: If necessary, your personal injury lawyer can take your case to court and represent you in front of a judge and jury.
Contact Our Top Rated Lawyers at Cantor Grana Buckner Bucci Today
Contact our top-rated personal injury lawyers today if you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident. We have extensive experience representing victims of pedestrian accidents and can help you get the compensation you deserve. Don’t wait – schedule a consultation with us today to discuss your case and begin the process of seeking justice for yourself or your loved one.
