According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Association (NHTSA), roughly 5,000 pedestrians die in motor vehicle accidents in the United States each year.
When these accidents are caused by negligent or reckless drivers, victims may choose to file a personal injury lawsuit seeking compensation for pain and suffering, loss of income, past and future medical bills, and property damage – among other things.
Injuries range from minor to severe and often include spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, broken or fractured bones, organ damage, internal bleeding, and lacerations.
If you’ve been involved in such an accident, seek immediate medical assistance – even if you believe you haven’t been injured. After an accident, adrenaline pumps through your body, sometimes making it difficult to determine the full extent of your pain.
Once you’ve seen a physician, consider the cause of the accident. Should you consider filing a claim of your own?
Frequent Causes of Pedestrian Accidents
When drivers are responsible for pedestrian accidents, common causes include:
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or narcotics
- Driving and texting
- Driving while otherwise distracted
- Rolling through traffic lights and stop signs
- Driving through crosswalks without looking
When pedestrians are partially at-fault, common causes include:
- Jaywalking
- Walking and texting
- Walking while intoxicated or inebriated
- Walking without right of way
Important Safety and Awareness Tips
Both drivers and pedestrians can make the roadway a safer place by following a few safety tips.
For example, drivers can:
- Pay close attention to crosswalks at stoplights – even when you have a green light.
- Always look before making a left-hand turn.
- Make eye contact with pedestrians to ensure they see you coming.
- Follow road restrictions and the speed limit.
- Use your headlights at night. This will make it easier to see pedestrians.
- Never drive under the influence of drugs or narcotics, no matter how small.
Pedestrians should:
- Make eye contact before crossing the street. Never assume a driver will see you entering the roadway.
- Remain visible. Wear light colored or reflective clothing when traveling at night. Be aware of obstacles like bushes and parked cars that may affect visibility.
- Look both ways before crossing the street. It’s an oldie, but a goodie.
- Walk on the sidewalk. If you cannot use the sidewalk, walk on the shoulder of the road and face oncoming traffic.
- Stay off your smartphone. Looking down, rather than paying attention to your surroundings, can put you at risk. Even if you’re in a familiar environment, keep your eyes on the road.
- Use crosswalks whenever possible. Jaywalking is not only illegal, but dangerous.
Contact an Atlanta Pedestrian Accident Attorney for Representation
If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident caused by a negligent or reckless driver, contact an experienced Atlanta injury attorney for representation and assistance. The team at Schnipper Law P.C. is prepared to build your case, speak to witnesses, and collect essential documentation – giving you time to focus on your health and recovery. [calltoaction]Call (404) 983-6051.[/calltoaction]