Pedestrian vs. vehicle accidents can lead to severe injuries and fatalities—but understanding how they happen can help you prevent them, whether you’re a pedestrian or a driver.
Crosswalk and intersection accidents
Crosswalks are designed to be safe zones for pedestrians, but they can still be dangerous. Accidents often occur when drivers fail to yield to pedestrians, run red lights or make illegal turns. Pedestrians may also be at risk if they cross against the signal or outside the designated crosswalk area.
Distracted driving accidents
Distracted driving is a significant cause of pedestrian accidents. When drivers are texting, talking on the phone, eating or otherwise not paying full attention to the road, they may fail to see pedestrians. Even a momentary distraction can have catastrophic consequences.
Backing-up accidents
Accidents involving vehicles backing up are particularly dangerous in parking lots and driveways. Drivers may not see pedestrians behind their vehicles, especially small children. Lack of rearview cameras or failure to use them properly can lead to these unfortunate incidents.
Dart-out accidents
Dart-out accidents occur when pedestrians suddenly enter the roadway, often from between parked cars or other obstacles. Drivers may not have enough time to react, leading to collisions with people or other vehicles. Children are especially prone to dart-out accidents due to their unpredictable behavior and smaller size, making them harder to see.
Bus and transit accidents
Pedestrians are at risk around buses and other transit vehicles. Accidents often occur when pedestrians cross streets to catch a bus, walk in front of a stopped bus or are struck by a bus making turns. The size and limited maneuverability of buses can make it harder for drivers to avoid collisions.
Alcohol-related accidents
Both impaired drivers and pedestrians can contribute to alcohol-related accidents. Drivers under the influence of alcohol may have reduced reaction times and impaired judgment, leading to accidents. Similarly, pedestrians who are intoxicated may make unsafe decisions, such as crossing streets without looking.
Nighttime and weather-related accidents
Pedestrian accidents are more likely to occur at night due to reduced visibility. Drivers may struggle to see pedestrians in poorly lit areas, and pedestrians may be less aware of approaching vehicles. Adverse weather conditions, such as rain, snow and fog, can also increase the likelihood of accidents. Slippery roads, reduced visibility and longer stopping distances make it harder for drivers to see and avoid pedestrians in time. Pedestrians should be extra cautious and ensure they are visible to drivers, and drivers should take care to compensate for the poor conditions..
If you or a loved one has been involved in a pedestrian accident, call the Law Offices of Tim Misny today.
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The Law Offices of Tim Misny can help you with your accident claim. If you or a loved one were injured due to someone else’s negligence or recklessness, I’ll Make Them Pay!® Call my office at (877) 944-4373 so that I can evaluate your case right away.
