What Are the Common Causes of a Pedestrian Accident?

 Posted on March 31, 2020 in Personal Injury

People of all ages walk as a form of exercise or to get to and from work or school. Although walking can be a fun and leisurely activity, it can also prove dangerous at times. In 2017, there were 5,977 pedestrians killed in traffic-related crashes in the United States, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). There are various conditions that can increase the chances of a pedestrian accident, such as inclement weather, reckless driving, and other factors. Regardless of the causes, any collision involving a person on foot and a vehicle can have serious consequences, especially for the pedestrian. These types of accidents can result in severe injuries and even death. 

Factors That Can Lead to a Pedestrian Accident

A collision between a car and a pedestrian can take place at a busy intersection, in a residential area, or on a rural road. Studies show that alcohol and controlled substances significantly alter a driver’s reaction time as well as their vision, so drinking and driving or drug use may cause a person to fail to notice a pedestrian who is crossing the street until it is too late. Distracting behaviors can also take a motorist’s eyes off the road, which increases the chances of colliding with a pedestrian. 

Below are some of the typical actions that can cause a pedestrian accident: 

• Distracted driving (texting or talking on a cell phone, eating, putting on makeup) 

• Driving under the influence (DUI) of drugs or alcohol

• Left-hand or right-hand turns at red lights

• Unmarked or hidden crosswalks

• Reckless behavior such as speeding

• Backing up (leaving a parking spot or driveway)

• Disobeying traffic signals

Types of Pedestrian Injuries

Today’s vehicles are equipped with many advanced safety features, such as airbags, backup cameras, and blind spot alerts. This offers protection for occupants in the event of a crash. On the other hand, a person walking on the street does not have this same luxury. That is why a pedestrian’s injuries from being hit by an automobile are often severe and life-threatening. Wearing bright, reflective clothing when walking at night can help drivers see pedestrians better. However, if a driver is impaired due to any of the aforementioned reasons, they are endangering people who are crossing the street or even waiting on the sidewalk.
A few of the injuries that a pedestrian can sustain in an accident with a vehicle include:   

• Broken/fractured bones (arm, leg, hand)

• Traumatic brain injury (TBI)

• Internal damage/bleeding

• Spinal cord damage/paralysis

• Lacerations and bruises

Contact a Barrington Personal Injury Attorney

Walking outside is a great way to get exercise and fresh air. It is also a good tactic to relieve stress during these uncertain times. It is important to be aware that accidents can occur even if a pedestrian is walking in designated crosswalks, sidewalks, or paths. If you or your loved one has suffered an injury after being struck by a vehicle, you may be entitled to seek damages, depending on the circumstances. At Barrington Injury Attorneys, we are committed to seeking justice on behalf of those who are injured. Our diligent Cook County pedestrian accident lawyers understand how important seeking compensation for medical bills or lost wages is to you and your family. To schedule your free consultation, call our office today at 224-900-HURT.

Sources:
https://crashstats.nhtsa.dot.gov/Api/Public/ViewPublication/812681
http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/ilcs3.asp?ActID=2375&ChapterID=67