Pedestrian accidents can be some of the most devastating types of car accidents. Every day, pedestrians are walking on sidewalks and streets, and unfortunately, these types of accidents do happen. It is important to understand the main causes of pedestrian accidents in order to help prevent them from occurring.
The most common cause of pedestrian accidents is driver negligence or recklessness. This includes drivers who are distracted by their phones or other devices while driving, drivers who are speeding, or drivers who fail to yield the right-of-way to pedestrians. Other causes include poor visibility due to darkness or inclement weather conditions, as well as pedestrians not using crosswalks when crossing the street. Additionally, alcohol consumption by either the driver or pedestrian can also lead to an accident.
Main Causes of Pedestrian AccidentsPedestrian accidents are a serious problem that can lead to serious injury or even death. There are many causes of pedestrian accidents, but the nine main causes include distracted drivers, impaired drivers, impatient drivers, poor visibility, inadequate crosswalks and sidewalks, jaywalking, speeding vehicles, aggressive driving, and mechanical failure.
Distracted drivers pose a major risk to pedestrians as they may not be paying attention to their surroundings while texting or talking on their cell phones. Impaired drivers are also dangerous as they may drive through crosswalks against traffic lights or make left turns directly into a group of pedestrians. Impatient drivers who do not yield to pedestrians who have the right of way in New York State can also cause pedestrian accidents. Poor visibility due to darkness or bad weather can make it difficult for both pedestrians and drivers to see each other leading to an accident. Inadequate crosswalks and sidewalks can also contribute to pedestrian accidents if there is no safe place for them to walk. Jaywalking is another common cause of pedestrian accidents as it puts pedestrians in danger when crossing roads without using designated crossings. Speeding vehicles can increase the likelihood of an accident occurring if they cannot stop in time when a pedestrian steps out onto the road.
Ways You May Reduce Pedestrian AccidentsPedestrian accidents are a growing concern in the United States, with fatalities rising by 27 percent from 2007 to 2016. As a pedestrian, it is important to take steps to reduce your chances of becoming another statistic. One way to do this is to never assume that drivers are paying attention. Even if you have the right of way at a crosswalk or other designated area, always be sure that the road is clear before crossing. This means looking both ways and making eye contact with any drivers who may be approaching.
Another way to reduce your risk of being involved in an accident as a pedestrian is to wear bright clothing when walking at night or in low-light conditions. Wearing reflective materials can help make you more visible to drivers and increase their awareness of your presence on the road. Additionally, avoid distractions such as using your phone while walking so that you can remain alert and aware of your surroundings at all times. By following these simple guidelines, pedestrians can significantly reduce their chances of being involved in an accident.
Talk to a Lawyer
An experienced accident lawyer in Harris County, Galveston County, Fort Bend County, Montgomery County, Brazoria County, Houston, Sugar Land, Missouri City, and Stafford, Texas at Thornton Esquire Law Group, PLLC, can help you with your accident case. Contact us today at www.thorntonesquirelawgroup.com for a free consultation.