5 Common Causes Of Pedestrian Accidents And Their Legal Implications

Pedestrian accidents are a major concern across the United States, with thousands of individuals suffering injuries and fatalities each year. While there are many different factors that can contribute to these accidents, some causes are more common than others.

In this article, we will explore five of the most common causes of pedestrian accidents and the legal implications that come with them. From distracted driving to poorly designed roadways, we will take a closer look at the factors that contribute to these accidents and what steps can be taken to prevent them.

Pedestrian accidents are unfortunately common, and they can be caused by a variety of factors. Some of the most common causes include distracted driving, speeding, failure to yield, driving under the influence, and poor visibility. If you are involved in a pedestrian accident, it is important to understand the legal implications. You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and other damages, but it is important to work with an experienced personal injury attorney to ensure that your rights are protected.

5 Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents and Their Legal Implications

Pedestrian accidents are unfortunate, but they happen more often than we would like to think. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in 2019 alone, there were 6,205 pedestrian fatalities in the United States. As a pedestrian, it is important to know the common causes of these accidents and their legal implications. Here are five of the most common causes of pedestrian accidents and what you need to know about them.

Driver Negligence

One of the most common causes of pedestrian accidents is driver negligence. This can include distracted driving, speeding, failure to yield, and driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. When a driver is negligent, they can cause serious harm to pedestrians, and they can be held liable for their injuries.

If you are a pedestrian who has been injured by a negligent driver, you may be able to file a personal injury claim against the driver’s insurance company. This can help you recover compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Poor Visibility

Poor visibility is another common cause of pedestrian accidents. This can happen when a driver is unable to see a pedestrian due to poor weather conditions, low light, or obstructed views. Pedestrians can also be at fault if they are wearing dark clothing or walking in poorly lit areas.

If you are a pedestrian who has been injured due to poor visibility, you may still be able to recover compensation for your injuries. However, the amount of compensation you can receive may be reduced if you were partially at fault for the accident.

Unsafe Road Conditions

Unsafe road conditions can also contribute to pedestrian accidents. This can include poorly maintained sidewalks, potholes, and other hazards. Property owners who fail to maintain safe conditions on their property can be held liable for injuries caused by these hazards.

If you are a pedestrian who has been injured due to unsafe road conditions, you may be able to file a claim against the property owner’s insurance company. This can help you recover compensation for your injuries and related expenses.

Jaywalking

Jaywalking is a term used to describe pedestrian behavior that is illegal or unsafe. This can include crossing the street outside of a designated crosswalk or crossing against a signal. Pedestrians who engage in jaywalking can be held liable if they are hit by a vehicle while doing so.

If you are a pedestrian who has been injured while jaywalking, you may still be able to recover compensation for your injuries. However, the amount of compensation you can receive may be reduced if you were partially at fault for the accident.

Vehicle Malfunctions

Vehicle malfunctions can also contribute to pedestrian accidents. This can include brake failures, tire blowouts, and other mechanical issues. When a vehicle malfunctions, the driver may lose control of the vehicle and hit a pedestrian.

If you are a pedestrian who has been injured due to a vehicle malfunction, you may be able to file a claim against the manufacturer or the driver’s insurance company. This can help you recover compensation for your injuries and related expenses.

Benefits of Knowing the Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents

Knowing the common causes of pedestrian accidents can help you stay safe when you are walking near roadways. By being aware of the risks, you can take steps to avoid dangerous situations and protect yourself from harm. Additionally, if you are ever involved in a pedestrian accident, knowing the common causes can help you understand your legal rights and options.

Conclusion

Pedestrian accidents are a serious problem in the United States, but they can be prevented. By knowing the common causes of these accidents and their legal implications, pedestrians can take steps to protect themselves and hold negligent parties accountable for their actions. If you have been injured in a pedestrian accident, it is important to seek the advice of a qualified personal injury attorney to help you understand your legal options.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the legal implications of a pedestrian accident?

Pedestrian accidents can have serious legal implications, especially for the driver involved. In most cases, the driver will be held liable for any injuries or damages caused to the pedestrian. This means that they may be required to pay for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. In some cases, the driver may also face criminal charges if they were driving under the influence or behaving recklessly.

However, pedestrians may also be held partially responsible for the accident if they were not following traffic laws or behaving recklessly. This is known as comparative negligence and can reduce the amount of compensation they are eligible to receive. It is important to consult with a personal injury lawyer to understand the legal implications of a pedestrian accident.

What are the five common causes of pedestrian accidents?

While there are many factors that can contribute to a pedestrian accident, some of the most common causes include distracted driving, speeding, failure to yield to pedestrians, driving under the influence, and poor visibility. Distracted driving, such as texting or using a phone while driving, is a major cause of pedestrian accidents.

Speeding can also be a factor, as it reduces the driver’s ability to stop in time to avoid hitting a pedestrian. Failure to yield to pedestrians is another common cause, especially at crosswalks or intersections. Driving under the influence can impair a driver’s judgment and slow their reaction time, making it more likely that they will hit a pedestrian. Poor visibility, such as during bad weather or at night, can also contribute to pedestrian accidents.

How can pedestrian accidents be prevented?

There are several steps that drivers and pedestrians can take to prevent accidents. Drivers should always be alert and aware of their surroundings, especially in areas where pedestrians are likely to be present. They should also obey traffic laws and never drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Pedestrians can also take steps to stay safe, such as using crosswalks and obeying traffic signals. They should also be aware of their surroundings and avoid distractions such as phones or headphones. Wearing reflective clothing or carrying a flashlight can also increase visibility, especially at night.

What should I do if I am involved in a pedestrian accident?

If you are involved in a pedestrian accident, the first step is to seek medical attention for anyone who is injured. If possible, move the vehicles involved to a safe location and call the police to report the accident. Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver, and gather contact information from any witnesses.

It is also important to consult with a personal injury lawyer, who can help you understand your legal rights and options. They can help you negotiate with insurance companies and seek compensation for any damages or injuries sustained in the accident.

How can a personal injury lawyer help me after a pedestrian accident?

A personal injury lawyer can provide valuable assistance after a pedestrian accident. They can help you understand your legal rights and options, and negotiate with insurance companies to ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries and damages. They can also represent you in court if necessary, and help you navigate the complex legal system.

Additionally, a personal injury lawyer can provide emotional support during a difficult time, and help you focus on your recovery rather than the stresses of the legal process. Hiring a personal injury lawyer can ensure that you receive the best possible outcome after a pedestrian accident.

In conclusion, pedestrian accidents can be devastating for both the victim and the driver involved. Understanding the common causes of these accidents and their legal implications can help prevent them from happening in the future. It is important for drivers to always remain vigilant and aware of their surroundings, especially in areas with high pedestrian traffic.

Furthermore, pedestrians should also take responsibility for their own safety by following traffic signals and using crosswalks. By working together, we can help reduce the number of pedestrian accidents and make our roads safer for everyone.

Remember, if you or someone you know has been involved in a pedestrian accident, it is important to seek legal advice to understand your rights and options. With the right legal support, you can hold those responsible accountable for their actions and obtain the compensation you need to move forward.