Georgia has an issue with fatal car accidents involving pedestrians. In early 2018, it was reported that pedestrian auto wrecks were up 16% in Georgia. The state is ranked 16th highest in pedestrian deaths within the U.S.
At a time when more pedestrians are being killed by vehicles in America than any time in the last quarter century, it’s important to educate ourselves about the dangers of pedestrian accidents and how they are most likely to occur.
But what are the most common pedestrian accidents? How can you prevent them? And if you have been struck by a vehicle, how can you make sure that you receive the damages that you are owed?
1. Turning or Merging Vehicles
Drivers are often most focused on the road when turning or merging into traffic. That would be a poor time to attempt crossing the road. While drivers are so locked in on the vehicles around them, they often let pedestrians pass unnoticed.
If a pedestrian is running late or trying to dash across the street to catch a green light, they could come into contact with a turning or merging vehicle. This is particularly dangerous when it happens at a busy intersection.
2. Distracted Driving
Since the age of cell phones first began, distracted driving has been an issue in the U.S. That only got worse when smartphones came around. Now, we are a nation so obsessed with our phones that we are looking at them all day, even while operating a vehicle.
Before crossing the street, particularly when there is no traffic light, make sure to look both ways. Look left, right, and then left again. If a car is coming from a safe distance away, make sure that the driver does not have their head down or look otherwise distracted.
Distracted driving can come in many forms. Texting, playing with the radio, eating, drinking, and turning around to address someone in the back seat are all classic examples of distracted driving.
3. Passing in Front of a Stopped Bus or Car
While exiting a bus or crossing the street, a car that stops to let you pass could be doing more harm than good. That driver, whose intentions are noble, could be inadvertently blocking you from the view of approaching vehicles.
Once you pass the good Samaritan driver, you could surprise oncoming traffic which might be moving too fast to stop in time.
4. Backup Accidents
Many drivers are guilty of backing up without looking. Many times, their view is partially obstructed. Sometimes a pedestrian is walking through a parking lot and passing the car right as it’s about to start backing up.
Handicapped people in wheelchairs and children are most at risk from back up accidents, as they are below the driver’s normal viewpoint. Drivers without a rear facing camera have to be especially careful that there is no one passing behind them.
5. Ice Cream Truck
During the summer months, drivers need to be wary anytime they hear the music of an ice cream truck. Children in the neighborhood can hear it too, and they might come running out into the street, money in hand, ready for some ice cream.
Pedestrians should keep a close eye on their children to ensure that they don’t run out into the street where a vehicle can strike them.
Consult an Experienced Atlanta Personal Injury Attorney
If you or a loved one has been struck by a vehicle while walking, you may be entitled to receive damages. You need an Atlanta personal injury attorney. Schnipper Law, P.C. can help you receive what you are owed. For a free case evaluation, call us at (404) 545-5845 today.
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