Walking is often the safest way to get from Point A to Point B – provided they are not too far apart. However, injuries happen to pedestrians just as they do to drivers and passengers in motor vehicles. In fact, some pedestrian injuries are more severe due to the lack of protection around the victim.
Several factors contribute to the occurrence of pedestrian accidents. The factors leading to the accident have a major impact on the outcome of any pedestrian accident claim.
The following are some of the most common factors that lead to pedestrian accidents.
Low visibility
Drivers are required to use headlights when driving at night or at times of poor visibility. Using headlights allows the driver to see obstacles on the road at night and also makes it more likely that his vehicle will be seen by other drivers and pedestrians. If a driver fails to use his headlights, he is more likely to be involved in a collision with another vehicle or a pedestrian.
Driving at high speeds
Speeding is one of the most common causes of motor vehicle collisions. It is more difficult to control a vehicle traveling at high speeds. Drivers traveling at high speeds will find it difficult to stop their vehicles when they encounter a pedestrian on a crosswalk for example. When a driver is operating the vehicle in excess of the speed limit and hits a pedestrian, it is likely that the driver will be held liable for the resulting injuries.
Aggressive driving
Drivers with road rage at high risk of striking pedestrians. Angry drivers are less likely to operate the vehicle in a safe or prudent way. They are more likely to drive aggressively and cause a crash that results in serious injuries.
Driving under the influence
When a driver is under the influence of drugs or alcohol, he is not in full control of his senses. Drunk drivers’ reasoning is affected and they are lose the ability to react quickly enough to avoid collisions. Many drivers under the influence of drugs or alcohol drive aggressively or at high speeds. They put the lives of both pedestrians and other motorists at risk.
Distractions
The increased use of smart phones for texting, calling and interacting on social media has resulted in increased communication and sharing of information. However, it has also resulted in the rise of distracted drivers and pedestrians. People are not only spending more time on their smart devices but also using them all the time. This includes while driving and walking.
The reaction times for distracted drivers are even slower than with drunk drivers. As a result, distracted drivers are more likely to collide with other motor vehicles and pedestrians.
If you’ve been involved in a pedestrian accident, it is important to get in touch with an attorney as soon as possible. Pedestrian accidents often result in severe injuries. It is your right to seek compensation for your injuries.
