Pedestrian accident rates are very high in the US. Study shows that more than 4000 pedestrian accidents result in fatalities each year, which means a death every 113 minutes. Various factors contribute to such accidents, including distracted driving, overspeeding vehicles, jaywalking, and failure to follow traffic signals. Understanding these factors is very important to minimize accidents and promote road safety.
If you have been hit by an intoxicated driver, legal service providers like Dolan Dobrinsky Rosenblum Bluestein can help you gather evidence and fight for the compensation you deserve. Meanwhile, read this blog to learn more about some common causes of pedestrian accidents and how you can keep yourself safe on the roads.
Common causes of pedestrian accidents.
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Driver negligence.
One of the major reasons behind pedestrian accidents is driver negligence. This may include overspeeding, swirling vehicles, and distracted driving. Many drivers who are not aware of their surroundings may fail to notice the pedestrians until it is too late. For example, a driver making a speedy turn at an intersection may hit a pedestrian and cause an accident. Such accidents can result in severe injuries and even death in some cases.
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Distracted driving.
Distracted driving has become very prevalent because of the rise of mobile device usage. Many drivers do not pay attention to the road and engage in activities such as texting, making phone calls, and adjusting the radio while driving. A distracted driver can turn the steering wheel haphazardly to avoid collision with the approaching vehicle and hit a pedestrian. Pedestrians are especially vulnerable when a driver’s attention is diverted away from the road.
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Impaired driving.
Driving under the influence of drugs or alcoholic substances can severely affect your judgment. It slows down your nervous system, thereby reducing reaction time. Influenced drivers are less likely to be aware of their surroundings. They can fail to notice the pedestrians on the road or sidewalks, which can lead to collisions. Additionally, impaired drivers are more likely to drive recklessly or aggressively, which can further increase the risk of accidents and injuries.
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Weather conditions.
Sometimes, drivers are not completely responsible for causing the accidents. Bad weather conditions such as heavy rain, snow, and ice impair the visibility of both pedestrians and drivers. For example, heavy rains can make the road slippery and can reduce the driver’s ability to react to unexpected obstacles, including pedestrians. Bad weather conditions can also reduce visibility and make it challenging for pedestrians to be seen, especially during the nighttime. Additionally, poorly designed intersections and lack of pedestrian infrastructure can also lead to unfortunate events.
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Jaywalking.
Accidents can also be caused due to negligence from pedestrians as well. Jaywalking refers to walking or crossing the streets outside of designated sidewalks and is a significant contributor to pedestrian accidents. If you are walking in an area that is not marked for crossing, you will be increasing the risk of getting hit by a vehicle. Pedestrians often do this when they are impatient or want to save time. Drivers may have to make sudden stops or swerve to avoid jaywalkers, leading to accidents. To prevent jaywalking accidents, pedestrians should always use designated crosswalks and intersections and follow traffic signals.
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Running into the road.
Children and adults are more prone to running into the road without warning. This can be a significant factor for pedestrians as vehicles do not have enough time to brake or swerve to avoid collision. As children are unpredictable, drivers should stay aware, especially in residential areas and near playgrounds.
Hire a lawyer today!
Pedestrian accidents are common, but they have devastating consequences. If you or someone you know has been injured in an accident, hire a lawyer to fight for your rights and get the compensation you deserve.
