What Causes Pedestrian Accidents?

Pedestrian accidents are an unfortunate and often devastating occurrence on our roadways. Unlike drivers or passengers, pedestrians have no physical barrier to protect them in a collision, making the injuries sustained potentially more severe. At Brassfield & Krueger, Ltd., we understand the profound impact such accidents can have on victims and their families. It’s essential to be informed about the common causes of pedestrian accidents and know your rights to seek compensation if you’re injured.

Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents

Distracted Driving

One of the leading causes of pedestrian accidents is distracted driving. Drivers who text, talk on the phone, or engage with in-vehicle technologies divert their attention away from the road. This lack of focus can result in tragic outcomes when drivers fail to notice pedestrians crossing the street.

Road Construction

Construction zones often disrupt normal traffic patterns, creating hazardous conditions for pedestrians. Detours and temporary pathways can force pedestrians to walk in areas where drivers do not expect them to be. Additionally, construction equipment and activities can obscure sightlines, increasing the risk of accidents. Drivers must obey all traffic signs present in a construction zone and remain at or under the posted speed limit. 

Drunk Driving

Impaired drivers pose a significant threat to pedestrian safety due to their compromised ability to operate a vehicle effectively. When drivers consume alcohol or drugs, their reaction times slow, their judgment becomes impaired, and their ability to focus diminishes. This combination often leads to dangerous behaviors such as running red lights, failing to yield at crosswalks or making erratic driving decisions. For instance, an impaired driver might attempt to navigate a turn without noticing pedestrians crossing the street, resulting in severe accidents.

Recklessness

Reckless behavior by both drivers and pedestrians is another significant contributor to pedestrian accidents. Drivers who speed, ignore traffic signals or fail to yield at crosswalks endanger everyone on the road. Similarly, pedestrians who jaywalk or cross streets without paying attention to traffic signals put themselves at considerable risk.

Unsafe Road Conditions

Adverse weather conditions such as rain, snow, and ice can make roads slippery and treacherous. For drivers, these conditions can reduce visibility and increase stopping distances, making it harder to avoid pedestrians. For pedestrians, icy sidewalks and poorly lit streets during nighttime can lead to falls and unexpected movements into the path of oncoming vehicles.

Drivers Making Left Turns

Intersections are notorious hotspots for pedestrian accidents, particularly when drivers make left turns. Often, these drivers are focused on negotiating the intersection and may overlook pedestrians crossing the street. Despite traffic signals and crosswalks, a driver’s split-second lapse in attention can have dire consequences.

Take Action Now to Protect Your Rights

Pedestrian accidents result from various factors. By understanding these common causes, both pedestrians and drivers can take proactive steps to minimize risks and prevent accidents.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident, it is crucial to seek legal assistance promptly. Brassfield & Krueger, Ltd. has been dedicated to representing accident victims for over 75 years. Our experienced attorneys understand the complexities of personal injury law and are committed to fighting for the compensation you deserve. Contact us today to discuss your case and explore your options for seeking compensation. Your recovery and well-being are our top priorities.