The main causes of pedestrian accidents focus on careless or reckless actions on the driver’s part. Motorists have a duty to be aware of those on foot who share the roads. In most cases, the driver is at fault in these collisions, usually because they were driving distracted, speeding, or violated another traffic law.
Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, and Texas combined accounted for almost 50% of all pedestrian traffic fatalities in the United States in 2019. Still, pedestrians die or suffer devastating injuries every year in all states. Knowing the main causes of pedestrian accidents could help prevent them.
Motorists Can Prevent Many Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrian accidents are not only common, but they are also among the deadliest types of traffic accidents. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there is one death from a pedestrian versus car accident in the United States every 88 minutes.
Some common causes of pedestrian accidents include:
- Drunk driving: Almost a fifth of all motorists involved in fatal pedestrian accidents in 2017 had a blood alcohol concentration over the state’s legal limit.
- Speeding: Speeding means there is less time to recognize a pedestrian in the road and take action to avoid them, and the impact will be more significant if they are hit. Drivers should slow down in urban areas where pedestrians are likely to walk and carefully survey the sides of the road for anyone who might step out in front of you.
- Distracted driving: When a distraction, such as texting while driving, takes your eyes off the road or only your mind, the result could be a fatal pedestrian accident. Identifying pedestrians entering the roadway, especially outside of crosswalks, takes the driver’s full focus.
The CDC reports that most pedestrian accidents occur in the city, at night, and outside intersections. This data shows that pedestrians may be able to help protect themselves and reduce their chances of being hit by:
- Crossing the street using crosswalks
- Remaining on the sidewalk when possible
- Wearing reflective clothing if they are out after dark
For a free legal consultation, call (800) 537-8185
Seniors and Children Are at an Increased Risk in Pedestrian Accidents
The main causes of pedestrian accidents, at least on the part of the motorist involved, do not make it more likely that one age group over another would be injured. However, seniors and children are at an increased risk of suffering injuries or dying from injuries in a pedestrian accident.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), seniors over the age of 65 comprise about 20% of the pedestrian accident fatalities in 2017. Children under 15 years old accounted for another 20% of the fatal injuries the same year.
For this reason, it is imperative that children learn safety rules for crossing roads, walking along roads, using sidewalks, and asking for help if they need to retrieve toys from the road. It is also important to refresh your aging loved ones’ memories about safely using crosswalks and remaining vigilant while walking in areas where pedestrians and motorists share the roads.
Building a Case When a Driver Causes a Pedestrian Accident
An insurance claim or civil case may be possible following a pedestrian accident or injuries in most areas. You may be able to build a case against the driver who struck you, your child, or another family member. You will need to show the driver acted negligently, usually by violating a traffic law or another rule, and that this caused the accident and your losses.
With the right evidence and a strong argument for liability, you may be able to secure an out-of-court payment from the driver’s insurance company. This total will be the amount you agreed on during settlement negotiations, so it is important for you to understand your case’s value before beginning this process.
With help from an attorney, you will need to:
- Identify and value all your current and future expenses and losses
- Value your intangible damages, such as your physical pain and emotional losses
- Demand a fair and just payout according to these totals
- Negotiate with the insurer to reach a just settlement, if possible
- Know when to file a lawsuit to pursue damages
- Understand the applicable deadlines that apply
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Speak With Morris Bart, LLC About Your Pedestrian Accident Case
If you were struck by a vehicle as a pedestrian in Louisiana, Alabama, Arkansas, or Mississippi, the Morris Bart law firm might be able to help. We represent traffic accident victims across the Gulf South, including those injured in pedestrian accidents or the loved ones of those who died.
We have 15 locations to conveniently serve our clients. We also provide complimentary case evaluations for accident victims. Call us today or fill out our online form to learn more about your legal options in a conversation with one of our attorneys.
Questions?Call (800) 537-8185
to find a Morris Bart office near you.
