Pedestrian accidents can result in serious injuries or even death due to the fact that pedestrians are quite vulnerable on the road. Unfortunately, pedestrian accidents are also somewhat common in the United States.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there were 6,283 pedestrian fatalities in 2018 alone. While pedestrians have a responsibility to be aware of their surroundings and follow safety guidelines, there are also several factors that can increase the risk of pedestrian accidents occurring. They include the following:
Distracted Driving
One of the primary factors that can increase the risk of pedestrian accidents is distracted driving. Distracted drivers may be more likely to fail to notice pedestrians in crosswalks or on sidewalks, and they may not be able to react quickly enough to avoid hitting them.
Speeding
Speeding is another factor that can increase the risk of pedestrian accidents. When drivers are traveling at high speeds, they have less time to react to pedestrians, and the impact of a collision is more severe.
Poor Visibility
Poor visibility can make it difficult for drivers to see pedestrians, particularly at night or in inclement weather. Pedestrians should wear reflective clothing or carry a flashlight to increase their visibility, and drivers should use their headlights to improve visibility.
Jaywalking
Pedestrians who jaywalk or cross outside of designated crosswalks are at increased risk of being hit by a vehicle. It is important for pedestrians to use designated crosswalks and to wait for the signal before crossing.
Intoxication
Intoxication can impair both drivers and pedestrians, making it more difficult to react to unexpected situations. Pedestrians who are intoxicated may be more likely to stumble into the roadway, while drivers who are intoxicated may be more likely to veer off the road.
Driver Fatigue
Driver fatigue can impair a driver’s ability to react quickly to unexpected situations, making them more likely to hit pedestrians. Drivers who are fatigued should take breaks and get enough rest before getting behind the wheel.
Vehicle Blind Spots
Large vehicles like trucks and buses have larger blind spots, which can make it difficult for drivers to see pedestrians who are crossing in front of them. Pedestrians should be aware of these blind spots and avoid crossing in front of large vehicles.
Weather Conditions
Inclement weather, such as rain, snow, or fog, can make it difficult for drivers to see pedestrians and can make roadways more slippery, increasing the risk of accidents.
When Negligence Causes Pedestrian Accidents
Although many factors can increase the chances of pedestrian accidents occurring, often, these accidents are the result of driver negligence. If you’ve been harmed in a California pedestrian accident because a motorist was careless, it’s important to understand that you may be eligible to receive financial compensation for your medical bills and related losses associated with your accident.
Review your case with a lawyer for more information. At the Law Offices of Howard Craig Kornberg, a pedestrian accident attorney in Los Angeles may help you pursue the compensation you deserve. For more information, contact us online or call us at 310-474-5588.
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