In recent years, more than 6,000 people have died in pedestrian accidents. These are terrible figures. They serve as a reminder of how critical it is for pedestrians to exercise extreme caution while walking along busy highways.
But in most cases, drivers’ recklessness causes most of these accidents.
This means you may sustain injuries after a car accident caused by someone else’s negligence. If that’s the case, you should explore all the legal options.
A skilled accident lawyer can assist you in preserving your rights to compensation. Keep reading to learn the 5 most common causes for pedestrian accidents.
1. Left Turns
Turning vehicles may strike pedestrians regardless of the direction of the turn. But cars making left-hand turns are hazardous for pedestrians.
Pedestrians in the crosswalk pay more attention to incoming traffic than drivers making a left turn. When this occurs, the driver may be unaware of the person until it is too late to stop.
2. Unmarked Crosswalks
Pedestrians crossing the street in marked crosswalks have the best visibility possible. The purpose of road striping, signs, and traffic signals is to alert a driver that someone is on the roadway.
Unmarked crosswalks lack the features that alert vehicles of a person crossing the road. Although you have the right to cross in these areas, you should watch approaching cars.
3. Poor Visibility
Sleet, fog, rain, and other bad weather make vision difficult for every road user. Walking is sometimes the only people’s choice. But most people avoid going out in adverse weather.
When there is precipitation on the road, drivers must pay close attention to the road. Apart from low visibility, the road may become wet or slippery. This may give cars less time to brake if pedestrians are in their path.
4. Drunk Driving
Consumption of alcohol is a problem that can result in collisions. Excessive consumption of alcohol increases the likelihood of drunk driving accidents. But it can also affect a pedestrian’s coordination, judgment, and other abilities.
Pedestrians who enter the road at an unsuitable time due to intoxication may be held responsible for the collision. This happens if they are outside of a marked or unmarked crosswalk. If the driver of the car was drunk, the motorist is usually held responsible. Hopefully, there will be someone nearby with the relevant first-aid certification and will be able to provide help until the ambulance arrives.
5. Pedestrian Clothed in Dark Colors
Regardless of where you are on the road, visibility is crucial. While cars have headlights and brake lights, pedestrians dressed in dark colors can be difficult to see at night.
But wearing dark clothing won’t prevent you from receiving compensation if you are involved in a pedestrian accident. If the driver could not see you due to your attire, a truck accident lawyer may help you receive compensation. But, in this situation, you may not receive the whole amount claimed.
Now You Know the Causes of Pedestrian Accidents
Suppose you were hit as a pedestrian by a careless vehicle. An accident attorney can help you get compensation for the loss. This includes your medical bills, pain and suffering, lost earnings, and other expenses.
Also, if you were a motorist who was hurt in a car accident caused by a pedestrian’s negligence, you may be eligible to seek compensation.
We recommend that you visit an accident attorney if you fall victim to pedestrian accidents. Most of them provide free initial consultations.
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