When you think of a car accident, your mind doesn’t always go to an accident involving a pedestrian. While vehicle to vehicle accidents are the most common, pedestrian accidents do occur and they often have tragic consequences. According to a recent study, about 5,000 pedestrians each year are killed as a result of these types of accidents. Another 70,000 are injured as a result. With more awareness, these accidents might be less common, but they will inevitably occur. Understanding the causes of pedestrian accidents might help you be more aware in certain situations and avoid accidents both as a driver and as a pedestrian.
People at risk of being involved
Though pedestrian accidents occur across all age groups, demographics, and genders, there are certainly specific groups that seem to be at more risk for injury or death in a pedestrian accident. Here is some important information that has been learned about pedestrian accidents and specific groups that are at increased risk.
- It is more likely that a man is injured in a pedestrian accident than a woman.
- People between the ages of 15 and 29 are at higher risk for severe injury and emergency room treatments as the result of a pedestrian accident.
- Older segments of the population are more likely to die as a result of a pedestrian accident, as they are more susceptible to severe injury and more vulnerable to potential complications.
- Over a third of those that died from a pedestrian accident had a BAC of .08 or higher. Intoxication increases the chances that you will die from a pedestrian accident.
- Children are at increased risk of death if hit as a pedestrian.
What causes these accidents?
Knowing which groups are at increased risk is important, but it’s not the only information that you will need. Knowing the most common causes of these accidents might help you avoid these situations altogether and stay out of the way of potential future accidents, as well. Here is an outline of some of the most common causes of pedestrian accidents.
Distraction
There are a number of things that could distract drivers and cause them to take less care than they should when driving around pedestrians. This includes cell phones, passengers, music, and others.
Speeding
When drivers go at speeds that are too high for the situation, it often results in accidents. As a driver, slowing down can greatly reduce your chances of hitting a pedestrian.
Drunk Driving
Driving while intoxicated greatly increases the chances of being involved in a car accident or pedestrian accident. Alcohol impairs drivers and makes it much more difficult to be safe on the roads.
Failure to Follow Signs
When drivers fail to follow signs, it could easily result in a pedestrian accident. This includes signs like yield signs, cross walks, and stop signs.
Backing Up
One of the most common ways that these accidents happen is by negligent drivers that don’t check behind them when backing up. You should always be aware of what is behind you as a driver and be on the lookout for vehicles that look like they are about to back up as a pedestrian.
What if you’ve been injured in a pedestrian accident?
If you have been injured in a pedestrian accident, the time to take action is now. The chances are that you have sustained an injury and are due compensation for your medical bills, time missed from work, and other factors. The first thing you should do is contact a trustworthy and reputable attorney to represent you in the matter and ensure your best interests are looked after.
