Pedestrian accidents are a grave concern, often resulting in catastrophic injuries or even death. Understanding the causes and common scenarios may help you stay vigilant and protect yourself while walking.
What are the common causes of pedestrian accidents?
Pedestrian accidents usually occur because of the following reasons:
Distracted driving
Drivers on their phones, eating or adjusting the radio could pose a significant threat to pedestrians. When motorists ignore the road, they may not notice you crossing the street or walking along the sidewalk.
Impaired driving
Drugs and alcohol may affect a driver’s judgment, reaction time and overall ability to operate a vehicle safely. Intoxicated drivers are more likely to run red lights, speed or veer onto sidewalks, putting you at risk.
Poor visibility
Certain factors might affect driver visibility. These may include poor lighting, severe weather, or obstructed views. These could make it difficult for drivers to see pedestrians. This may be especially dangerous at night or in areas with limited streetlights.
Failure to yield
Pedestrian accidents could occur when drivers do not follow the right-of-way to pedestrians at crosswalks or intersections. This may happen when motorists are in a hurry or disregard traffic laws.
Recognizing these common causes may allow you to protect yourself and others while navigating shared roadways.
What are common pedestrian accident scenarios?
While pedestrians can be at risk in various situations, specific scenarios may be more prevalent. These may include the following:
Crosswalk collisions
You may be at your most vulnerable when crossing the street, even in designated crosswalks. Drivers who speed through intersections or turn without checking for pedestrians could cause devastating accidents.
Parking lot incidents
Parking lots could be high-risk areas for pedestrians due to the constant flow of vehicles and limited visibility. A car backing out of a space or maneuvering through tight lanes may hit you.
Sidewalk accidents
Walking on sidewalks may not entirely protect you from reckless drivers. Vehicles that lose control or deliberately mount the curb could cause serious harm to unsuspecting pedestrians.
Staying aware of these common causes and scenarios allows you to protect yourself and minimize your risk of getting into an accident. It may be best to remain vigilant, use designated crosswalks and avoid distractions while walking.
If you get involved in a pedestrian accident, consider seeking legal advice. An attorney could help you understand your rights and options.