Pedestrian accidents can be very dangerous, causing severe injuries and even death. The injuries pedestrians can sustain range in severity and are typically based on who they were in a collision with (a car, cyclists, or another vehicle), the size of the vehicle involved, the speed the other person was traveling at, and where they are hit (i.e. from the side, head-on, etc.).
Common injuries sustained by pedestrians can include:
- Bruising
- Cuts or lacerations
- Soft tissue injuries
- Back and/or spinal cord injuries
- Head and/or traumatic brain injuries
- Broken bones or fractures
Common Causes of Pedestrians Accidents
Research shows that New Mexico is the deadliest state for pedestrians as the state is the number 1 in the nation for pedestrian deaths each year. To better protect pedestrians, everyone should take care to exercise caution and learn what causes accidents so that they can be prevented. There are several common causes of pedestrian accidents, which we will discuss in detail below.
Distracted Drivers or Pedestrians
Inattention by any party on the road can result in an accident. If any drivers, pedestrians, or other people on the road are distracted, an accident can happen. Drivers are often distracted when they engage in other activities while driving (i.e. texting, applying makeup, eating, etc.) or by other passengers in their vehicle. Pedestrians may also be distracted if they:
- Scroll on their phone
- Get absorbed in a podcast or playlist
- Stop watching the cars or their surroundings
Drunk Driving
Drivers who are under the influence of drugs or alcohol pose a serious risk to others on the road, including pedestrians. These drivers’ vision and judgment are impaired, and they often drive recklessly and ignore the rules of the road and traffic signals. Pedestrians should be wary of vehicles that are swerving in and out of lanes, speeding, or driving aggressively as these may signal a driver is drunk. It is also important to note that other reckless driving practices like speeding can present a dangerous risk to pedestrians.
Failure to Properly Yield
Pedestrians typically have the right of way, but impatient drivers may not take the time to look for pedestrians when they are making left-hand turns or driving in general. While pedestrians should not leave the curb suddenly and should look both ways, drivers and cyclists also have a duty to look out for pedestrians. Drivers should also avoid trying to maneuver around pedestrians they feel are moving too slow and just wait until they have crossed the street safely to continue driving.
Dangerous Weather Conditions
Inclement weather conditions often contribute to pedestrian and driving accidents. Pedestrians may trip and fall in puddles or on snow and ice. The weather can also impact driver visibility and driver’s ability to control their vehicles, which can lead to accidents. Everyone on the road should take extra precautions when the weather is risky.
Improper Attire
At night, pedestrians are at an even greater risk of getting into an accident, because the darkness limits visibility. Pedestrians who do not wear reflective gear or clothing or light colors, carry flashlights, or take extra precautions are at a greater risk of getting into an accident. Without these protections, they blend into their surroundings, and drivers do not see them walking.
Multi-Lane Roads
Multi-lane roads, highways, and busy intersections can lead to pedestrian accidents and collisions. On these types of roads, drivers often speed, make abrupt lane changes, and engage in other reckless driving behaviors. Drivers may also not realize that pedestrians are on these roads if there are no sidewalks and, thus, do not look out for them.
Get Legal Help
Even if you are partially at fault for the accident, you can still file a claim. However, your damages (compensatory award) will be reduced by your percentage of fault. If you or a loved one have been injured in a pedestrian accident caused by negligence, contact Michael Doyle, Attorney at Law. Our attorney and legal team can work tirelessly to investigate the circumstances of the accident, establish liability, mitigate your liability, and fight for your right to be compensated fairly.
Schedule a case consultation today by completing this online form or calling (505) 219-2176.