Pedestrian accidents are dangerous and traumatic incidents that can happen to anyone. They occur due to the carelessness of the pedestrians or negligence of third parties. A qualified and experienced lawyer will assist you to claim your compensation if the accident causes severe physical, emotional, and financial damage. Described below are the 8 major causes of pedestrian accidents.
1. Over Speeding
Some motorists exceed the speed limit on the road and cause traffic accidents. A fast and swerving car can cause severe injuries or even death.
2. Distracted Pedestrians and Drivers
You can easily cause an accident by having divided attention while driving or crossing a road. For example, drivers who drink, smoke, chat, or make phone calls are at a higher risk of experiencing an accident because they might not notice when a pedestrian is passing in front of them. In other cases, distracted pedestrians fail to check whether the road is clear on both sides before crossing.
3. Harsh Weather Conditions
Many pedestrian accidents happen when there are storms, mud, and fog. This is because these harsh conditions limit drivers’ visibility and prevent them from noticing foot travelers. Additionally, braking or stopping the vehicle on an icy or muddy freeway is difficult.
4. Driving While Drunk or Drugged
Another significant cause of pedestrian accidents is driving under the influence of alcohol or any other drug. Such drivers are disturbed and unfocused and lack the capacity to function properly.
If you or your family members get hit by a drunk driver and plan to file a case, you should consider seeking legal guidance from a pedestrian accident lawyer. This expert will help you understand your rights and the steps you should take to get the proper compensation.
5. Improper Lane Use
Lanes, just like pedestrian crossings, seek to prevent accidents on the road. However, some reckless drivers switch directions and lanes without giving the right signals. Consequently, they hit, injure, or kill other road users.
6. Jaywalking
Designating pedestrian lanes aims to allow pedestrians to cross the road safely. However, some road users fail to obey simple traffic rules and hence cause accidents. For instance, crossing the road without the pedestrian lanes puts you at risk of being hit by a car.
7. Unmarked Crosswalks
Pedestrian or “zebra” crossing prevents hundreds of pedestrian accidents every year. This is because they alert motorists of the presence of foot travelers. However, unmarked crossings or those marked unobtrusively, such as using faded paint, are an ingredient for disaster.
8. Dangerous Left-Hand Turning
Most drivers cause accidents when making a left turn because they concentrate too much on other cars and the busy intersection and fail to pay attention to pedestrians on the left.
In summary, motorists, pedestrians, and other road users are prone to pedestrian accidents. These incidents occur due to overspeeding, harsh weather conditions, and reckless and distracted driving. Seeking guidance from a lawyer after this incident is the right thing to do. The professional will guide you in fighting for your rights and making a valid compensation claim.