Pedestrian accidents happen for different reasons. They also happen to be one of the more deadlier types of accidents, as pedestrians have nothing to protect them from the impact.
In this article, we will discuss the main reasons why these accidents occur. You can hire the services of pedestrian accident attorneys if you are hit by a vehicle. They can help you get the compensation you deserve.
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Below are some reasons why pedestrian accidents occur:
Refusing to Allow the Right of Way
In driving and general transportation, “right of way" describes a pedestrian's or driver's legal entitlement to move forward first in a specific area or circumstance. When a driver or pedestrian crosses a street without yielding to the other person, it is considered a violation of traffic law. For example, before passing through a crossing area or intersection, a driver must allow a pedestrian who is directed by a traffic light to cross the road.
Unsafely Crossing an Intersection or Roadway
A pedestrian can still cross an intersection or roadway incorrectly, even when they have the right of way. Someone may try to jaywalk, which is the act of crossing the road at a location that is not the official crosswalk. You can read more about jaywalking here.
Other ways of incorrectly crossing include crossing the street before oncoming vehicles or just before a signal light changes.
There may be minimal to no reaction time for drivers when a person crosses the road incorrectly. As a result, a car might strike a pedestrian and seriously hurt them. If a foot-traveler acts carelessly and causes an accident, the driver needs to contact a vehicle accident lawyer to defend them and provide proof that they are not liable.
Working, Playing, Lying, or Standing in an Intersection or Roadway
When a pedestrian stands or loiters in the middle of the road, it can be challenging for the driver of a vehicle to prevent an accident. The driver might not notice the pedestrian in time, even when they swerve the car in an attempt to miss them. When a pedestrian is doing any of the above-mentioned activities on the roadway, they should be held accountable for the collision.
Roadside workers can lose their lives due to careless drivers. Usually, workers must put up signs that alert cars to their presence and wear visible clothing. Similarly, motorists must drive with increased caution when approaching a road work site.
Visibility Issues
Various circumstances can cause visibility issues for drivers and pedestrians. These issues can increase the risk of drivers colliding with pedestrians. Some of these circumstances include:
- Adverse weather circumstances
- Cars or objects parked by the roadside
- People walking at night in dark clothes
- Car headlights that are too bright for people to see
Liability for accidents with inadequate visibility may lie with drivers, pedestrians, or third parties like the road crew or the city. But a driver or pedestrian should likewise be cautious when there is low visibility. When caution is not applied, it will lead to this type of accident.
Medication, Alcohol, or Drug Usage
Each year, driving under the influence of drugs, alcohol, and even medication contributes to hundreds of auto accidents. Alcohol and drugs can cloud one's judgment, making it harder to drive or just cross the street. An accident could be caused by a driver or a pedestrian who has taken drugs or has consumed too much alcohol.
Darting or Sprinting across the road
Youngsters and teenagers may run into the road without thinking. Accidents could result from this in almost any area of the city. Motorists won't have enough time to respond appropriately when someone darts into the road.
