Pedestrians are vulnerable to accidents, and drivers must be cautious in all environments. In school zones and residential areas, drivers need to slow down and be especially attentive. Children, in particular, are vulnerable to accidents because their height makes them harder for motorists to see. They also pose a risk because they are traveling at a slower pace and may be unable to step onto curbs in time.
Pedestrian accidents can cause life-changing injuries for those involved, and they are common in our region. According to the California Office of Traffic Safety, more than 14,000 people suffered injuries in pedestrian accidents in California in 2011. In this article, we will look at some of the age groups most at risk for severe injuries. If you need a personal injury attorney, visit https://dozierlaw.com/attorneys/personal-injury-attorneys-albany today.
In the past two years, pedestrian accident deaths have increased dramatically. In fact, the 2018 rate was the highest since 1990. It rose by 3.4 percent from the previous year. That means one pedestrian is killed every 84 minutes. Although pedestrian injuries are often not life-threatening, they can be very expensive and life-altering. Because of this, it’s important to seek medical attention and seek the help of an experienced personal injury attorney as soon as possible.
The most vulnerable pedestrians include children. These individuals often fail to look both ways when crossing the street. They are also more likely to be hit by a car. SCDMV warns motorists to watch out for young pedestrians and slow down for them. If a pedestrian has a disability, it can also be more difficult to walk safely on a sidewalk.
Another factor to consider is the time of day. Most pedestrian accidents occur during the evening or night, when vehicles are less likely to see them. Many pedestrians wear dark clothing and don’t take the necessary precautions to increase their visibility. Also, drunk drivers are more likely to cause an accident during nighttime.
Pedestrians who live in urban areas are at the greatest risk for injury. This is because these cities have more cars and pedestrians are more vulnerable to accidents. Pedestrians in these areas may be jaywalking and are more likely to be hit by a car that ignores a pedestrian signal. Pedestrians can seek compensation if they are injured as a result of negligence by drivers.
Pedestrians also have to watch out for poor weather conditions. Fog can decrease visibility, and drivers should slow down when in such conditions. By slowing down, pedestrians increase their chances of survival. If you’re injured due to a pedestrian accident, you can seek compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and disability through a pedestrian accident lawsuit.
An intersection is another area where pedestrians are at risk of accident. Drivers may be rushing to make their turn and they might miss a pedestrian. In addition to the lack of warning signs, drivers may be more likely to drive at higher speeds if they’re distracted. Pedestrians should also teach children to avoid crossing the road at intersections.
