Top Causes of Pedestrian Accidents: How to Stay Safe on the Road

Each year, thousands of pedestrians are injured or killed in traffic accidents. In 2023, 7,314 pedestrians were killed in traffic crashes in the United States. That averages to about 20 pedestrians a day. Understanding the primary causes of these incidents is crucial for both pedestrians and drivers to enhance safety and prevent future tragedies. This blog post will explore the top causes of pedestrian accidents and provide practical tips on how to stay safe on the road.

Driver Negligence: A Leading Cause

Driver negligence is a significant factor in pedestrian accidents. Negligence can take many forms, including:

Distracted Driving: Drivers who are texting, talking on the phone, eating, or otherwise distracted are less likely to notice pedestrians crossing the road. Even a split second of inattention can have tragic outcomes. The CDC reports over 3,000 people are killed each year in the U.S. due to distracted driving, and a portion of these fatalities involve pedestrians.
Speeding: Exceeding the speed limit reduces a driver’s reaction time and increases the severity of injuries in the event of a collision. A pedestrian hit by a car going 20 mph has a 90% survival rate, but at 40 mph, that number plummets to 20%.
Failure to Yield: Drivers often fail to yield the right-of-way to pedestrians at crosswalks, especially at intersections with poor signage or no traffic lights.
Impaired Driving: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs impairs judgment, coordination, and reaction time, making drivers more likely to cause accidents.
Aggressive Driving: Actions like tailgating, running red lights, and making unsafe lane changes can create hazardous conditions for pedestrians.

Safety Tips for Pedestrians:

Always make eye contact with drivers before crossing the street to ensure they see you.
Be vigilant, even at crosswalks, and never assume drivers will stop.
Avoid walking near busy roads late at night, especially near establishments serving alcohol.

Pedestrian Error: Taking Responsibility for Your Safety

While driver negligence is a major factor, pedestrian behavior also plays a role in accidents. Common pedestrian errors include:

Jaywalking: Crossing the street outside of designated crosswalks or ignoring traffic signals can surprise drivers and lead to collisions.
Distracted Walking: Using a phone, listening to loud music, or engaging in conversations while walking can reduce awareness of surroundings and increase the risk of accidents.
Impaired Walking: Walking under the influence of alcohol or drugs can impair judgment and coordination, making pedestrians more likely to make unsafe decisions.

Safety Tips for Pedestrians:

Stick to crosswalks and wait for proper signals to reduce your risk.
Avoid distractions while walking, especially when crossing streets.
If impaired, ask someone to help you get home safely or use public transportation.

Environmental Factors: When the Road Itself is a Hazard

The environment can also contribute to pedestrian accidents. Factors such as:

Poor Visibility: Low visibility due to weather conditions like rain, fog, or snow increases the chances of accidents. Walking at night without reflective clothing also makes it harder for drivers to see pedestrians.
Poor Road Design: A lack of sidewalks, insufficient crosswalks, poor lighting, and inadequate signage can make roads dangerous for pedestrians.
Road Construction: Construction zones can create confusion and unexpected hazards for pedestrians, such as changes in traffic patterns, closed sidewalks, and unclear signage.

Safety Tips for Pedestrians:

Wear reflective or light-colored clothing at night and carry a flashlight when possible.
Be extra cautious in areas with poor lighting or during inclement weather.
Pay attention to signage and be aware of changes in traffic patterns in construction zones.

The Legal Rights of Pedestrians

In many jurisdictions, pedestrians have the right-of-way in marked crosswalks and intersections without traffic signals. Drivers are required to exercise due care to avoid collisions, even in areas where pedestrians may not have the explicit right-of-way. However, pedestrians also have a responsibility to follow traffic signals and cross at designated crosswalks whenever possible.

If you are injured in a pedestrian accident due to someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. It is important to consult with a personal injury attorney to understand your legal rights and options.

Common Injuries in Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrian accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, from minor to life-threatening. Common injuries include:

Head Trauma: Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are among the most severe injuries in pedestrian accidents, ranging from mild concussions to severe brain damage.
Spinal Cord Injuries: These injuries can cause partial or complete paralysis, significantly impacting a victim’s quality of life.
Broken Bones and Fractures: Pedestrian accidents often lead to broken bones, particularly in the legs, arms, and ribs.
Internal Injuries: Internal bleeding, organ damage, and ruptured blood vessels are some of the potential internal injuries that can occur.
Soft Tissue Injuries: Sprains, strains, and contusions are common soft tissue injuries in pedestrian accidents.

Seeking Legal Assistance

If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident, it is crucial to seek legal assistance as soon as possible. A personal injury attorney can help you:

Investigate the accident and gather evidence.
Identify all potential sources of compensation.
Negotiate with insurance companies.
File a lawsuit if necessary.

Conclusion

Pedestrian accidents are a serious problem, but they are also preventable. By understanding the top causes of these accidents and taking appropriate safety precautions, both pedestrians and drivers can help reduce the risk of collisions and create safer roads for everyone. Remember to stay alert, be aware of your surroundings, and always exercise caution when walking or driving near pedestrians.