The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that 76,000 pedestrians were injured in 2019. There were 6,205 pedestrian deaths in the same year.
Roads are for pedestrians too, and their safety is as important as that of the drivers and their passengers. However, these accidents can occur and take precious lives or bring forth severe injuries.
To prevent getting involved in a pedestrian accident in California, make sure to get the appropriate legal advice from a personal injury lawyer. Farahi Law Firm’s experienced and compassionate lawyers are ready to help guide you through your personal injury claim and obtain the maximum compensation for your injuries and damages.
What Causes Pedestrian Accidents?
Whether you walk or run on the road, you should always prioritize your safety. Because you share the road with cars, buses, and trucks, your body is at risk of sustaining grave and even fatal physical injuries. Protecting yourself starts with knowing what might cause pedestrian accidents in the first place.
Here are common causes of pedestrian accidents to guide you every time you go out on foot:
Intoxicated Drivers
Drunk driving is a well-known culprit in many motor vehicle accidents in the country. More often than not, driving under the influence leads to recklessness and ill judgment on the road.
According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), 42% of pedestrian fatalities were caused by drunk drivers with blood alcohol concentrations of more than 0.08 in 2019. These fatal accidents happened between the hours of 6 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Walking During Nighttime
With three-quarters of pedestrian accidents occurring because drivers are unable to see pedestrians, poor visibility is sure to be a significant factor for your safety. Streetlights are not enough to light up each corner of the street or the road.
When you walk at night, make sure that you are visible to drivers by wearing bright colors or reflective clothing or using a colorful umbrella when it rains. Avoid dark clothing. When you drive at night, make sure that you slow down on busy streets, residential areas, or before approaching crosswalks and making a left turn.
Pedestrians Not Using The Sidewalk
Even if designated sidewalks are available, some pedestrians risk walking along the roadway thinking that vehicles would easily see them. Some may also be unable to use the sidewalk because it is used by bicyclists, ongoing construction, or other obstructions, which makes it one of the top causes of pedestrian accidents.
When you have no choice due to these reasons, make sure that you are focused as you walk along the shoulder. Be vigilant and do not get distracted to avoid getting into a car accident.
Drivers Making Unsafe Left Turns
Compared to making a right turn, drivers are more prone to hitting a pedestrian crossing the road when turning left. In fact, IIHS reports that almost half of pedestrian fatalities caused by a vehicle turning left happen at intersections. To avoid such an accident, always check your mirrors and blind spots before you make a turn. You should also use your turn signal early on to let other drivers know of your intentions.
Speeding Drivers
When a vehicle goes beyond the speed limit, the driver has less time to see and react to a pedestrian on the road. This is one of the causes of pedestrian accidents where drivers make unsafe maneuvers, such as trying to avoid pedestrians by going into oncoming traffic or driving off the road.
Distracted Pedestrians
With the rise of technology, pedestrians are now more distracted than ever before. Whether they are looking at their cell phone or wearing headphones, these distractions can prevent them from hearing approaching vehicles or from paying attention to their surroundings. Be extra careful when crossing the street, especially if you are in an area with a lot of traffic. If possible, put away your devices and keep your headphones in your pocket when crossing the street.
Children Crossing The Street Without Adult Supervision
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly one-third of child pedestrian fatalities happen because they are crossing the street without an adult. Children are more likely to dart out into the street without looking both ways or checking for oncoming traffic. Teach your children about road safety, how to cross the street properly, and how to read traffic light signals. As a guardian, always be aware of where your children are and whether they are crossing the street safely.
From the causes of pedestrian accidents discussed above, it is clear that both the driver and the pedestrian play significant roles in preventing accidents. Both must obey basic traffic laws that ensure everyone’s safety on the road. They should bear in mind that the pedestrian is more likely to experience catastrophic injuries, as drivers are more secure thanks to the enclosed frame of their vehicle.
Injured In An Accident? Call a California Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
Pedestrian accidents sadly occur regularly. Sometimes, despite the various cautionary steps one may take, we cannot control the unsafe behavior of careless drivers. In this difficult time, you will need the help of a pedestrian accident attorney. Here at Farahi Law Firm, our personal injury lawyers are experienced in a wide variety of practice areas, such as:
- Drunk driving accident
- Running, jogger accidents
- Public transportation accidents
- Pedestrian accidents in crosswalks or at intersections
- Parking lot accidents
- Hit-and-run accidents
- School zone accidents
If you or a loved one were the victims of an accident due to the negligence of another person, don’t hesitate to contact Farahi Law Firm today. Our pedestrian injury attorneys have years of experience in winning our clients the maximum compensation needed for their damages and injuries.
Besides excellent legal representation and obtaining fair compensation, our personal injury lawyers will make sure that you get the proper medical attention you need for your injuries. Call (844) 824 2955 for a free consultation today!
