Pedestrian Crosswalk Accidents
When you are on foot, because there is nothing to protect you an impact, you are far more vulnerable to being seriously injured in a traffic accident. When you are walking around vehicles, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings and follow all traffic laws. In the unfortunate event that you are hurt in a crash, you should contact an experienced personal injury lawyer as soon as you can.
Pedestrian Accidents Are on the Rise
The Pedestrian and Bicycle Information Center shares several significant statistics related to pedestrian accidents:
- In 2015, there were more pedestrian traffic fatalities (more than 5,000) than there had been in any year prior (since 1996).
- In the years from 2006 to 2015, traffic fatalities overall decreased by almost 18 percent while pedestrian traffic fatalities rose by almost 12 percent.
- In the years from 2006 to 2015, pedestrian traffic injuries rose by almost 15 percent.
Pedestrian traffic accidents are on the rise.
Crosswalks Are Often the Site of Pedestrian Accidents
The National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that pedestrian accidents often happen in crosswalks and intersections, which represent the confluence of foot traffic and motor vehicle traffic. In fact, NHTSA cites another study which finds that 41 percent of pedestrian traffic accidents occur in intersections. A further study cited reports that drivers who fail to yield to pedestrians account for more than 41 percent of pedestrian crashes in marked crosswalks and for nearly 32 percent in unmarked crosswalks. The offending vehicle’s speed also plays an important role in how serious the ensuing accident will be.
Staying Safe in Crosswalks
Crosswalks are an obvious danger for pedestrians, but they are also necessary for allowing pedestrians to get where they are going. When it comes to staying safe in crosswalks, there are several rules you should always follow carefully:
Cross in a Group Whenever Possible - You are always safer when you cross in a group because a group of pedestrians calls more attention to itself and is easier for motorists to see and to respond to safely.
Pay Attention to What Is Going on All around You - When you are on foot, do not block out the traffic that is around you by putting on headphones or by engaging in another distraction. Being a distracted pedestrian can be as dangerous as being a distracted driver. Pay attention.
Know Where You Are Going - Planning your route ahead of time will help you improve your chances of arriving at your destination safely and on time.
If a Negligent Driver Leaves You Injured in a Pedestrian Accident, Consult with a Central Texas Personal Injury Attorney Today
Pedestrian accidents are dangerous accidents that often leave victims seriously injured. If a negligent driver has injured you in a pedestrian accident, you need experienced legal counsel. At The Law Office of Brett H. Pritchard – serving Central Texas, including Belton, Temple, Gatesville, and Lampasas – we are here to help. Attorney Brett Pritchard has the experience, dedication, and skill to fight for the compensation to which you are entitled. For more information, please contact or call us at (254) 220-4225 today.