Pedestrian accidents can happen anywhere. America has one of the highest rates of pedestrian accidents and deaths. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that 8,000 pedestrians lost their lives in road accidents involving motor vehicles in 2021. New York Magazine also published an article stating that more than 7,500 pedestrians died in the United States.
If you or someone you know was involved in an accident, then it is important to get legal assistance from pedestrian accident lawyers.
In this blog post, we are going to discuss the six ways a pedestrian can cause an accident.
The Six Ways in Which a Pedestrian Can Cause an Accident
Jaywalking or Crossing Outside of Crosswalks
One of the main reasons for pedestrian accidents is jaywalking. If pedestrians cross streets against traffic signals or outside designated crosswalks in urban areas, they put themselves in danger. And at the same time, they also become the main reason for the accident on the road.
When a pedestrian who violates the traffic rules is involved in an accident, then the pedestrian is partially liable for the accident.
Distracted Walking
A pedestrian who is distracted can cause an accident. Distraction here refers to actions like
- Talking on the phone
- Texting
- Listening to music on headphones
- Missing the road signs
Due to the distraction, pedestrians will not be able to concentrate on their surroundings. When an accident happens due to distraction, the pedestrian may be partially responsible for it and the losses that occur.
Failure to Look Properly
Before crossing the road, pedestrians have a duty to look out for vehicles. If they fail to assess the traffic situation adequately, they may inadvertently step into the path of an oncoming vehicle.
The oncoming vehicle may hit a pedestrian. In this circumstance, the pedestrian has some responsibility because the accident happened due to the negligent action of the pedestrian.
Misjudging a Vehicle’s Path or SpeedÂ
When crossing or walking on the road, pedestrians need to be aware of the speed and angle of oncoming vehicles.
If pedestrians miscalculate the vehicle’s speed or direction, then it contributes to an accident.
For example, a pedestrian assumes a bus or car will stop in time and starts to cross the road. If the pedestrian is hit by the vehicle, they will be partially responsible for the accident.
Wearing Dark Clothing at Night
A pedestrian who wears dark clothing at night can be hard to see, particularly when they are walking on a part of the road without street lights. Therefore, pedestrians also share some of the fault in the accident.
In this circumstance, the car or bus driver could not see you, so there is a higher chance of an accident. That is one of the main reasons why pedestrians must wear reflective or bright clothing and also carry a flashlight on the road.
Throwing Items on the Road
When the pedestrian throws any items that may hit a car or any other vehicle on the road, the driver will lose control, swerve, or suddenly halt, leading to an accident. In such cases, the pedestrian may be held liable for the accident.
Final Thoughts
It is important to keep in mind that both pedestrians and drivers have legal responsibilities on the road. If the pedestrian made any of the above mistakes, then they are legally responsible for causing the accident.
It is necessary to contact an experienced attorney who will help you determine fault in an accident. They will also help you get the compensation you deserve.
Pedestrians need to be responsible while on the road. It can help prevent accidents and also make the roads safer for everyone.
