Whether you are walking to get around from place to place or jogging for exercise, you may be in danger of being struck by a motor vehicle. Pedestrian accidents involving vehicles are generally catastrophic and fatal since pedestrians do not have the same amount of protection as drivers.
Drivers are obligated to follow traffic laws and drive with reasonable care, especially in residential areas and places with moderate and significant foot traffic. When motorists fail to obey the rules of the road or drive in a negligent or reckless manner, devastating collisions can happen.
The following are some of the most common causes of pedestrian accidents:
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Vehicles making left turns – Drivers who look straight ahead while focusing on negotiating busy intersections while looking straight ahead, rather than looking left, put pedestrians at risk of being hit. Remember, drivers may not always pay attention to crosswalk signals, so ensure drivers see when—even by making eye contact—you are crossing the street.
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Failure to yield right of way – In Texas, drivers are expected to operate their vehicles with caution to avoid hitting pedestrians in marked or unmarked crosswalks. If necessary, motorists are required to honk their horns to warn pedestrians. Impatient, aggressive, or even angry drivers (i.e., road rage) may not look out for pedestrians or attempt to drive around them, which can result in a pedestrian accident.
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Distracted drivers – In recent years, texting or otherwise using your cellphone while driving has been one of the most common causes of car accidents in the United States. However, pedestrians put themselves at risk of being struck by a vehicle when they are using their digital devices while crossing the street. In conclusion, do not use cellphones while driving or walking.
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Reckless drivers – Pedestrian accidents often involve drivers who were either speeding, driving too fast for conditions, disobeying traffic signals and signs, as well as reckless and careless driving. While speeding is a traffic offense, reckless driving is considered a crime.
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Impaired drivers – When a motorist is under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or a combination of both, their vigilance, judgment, motor skills, and reaction times are substantially impaired. A drunk or drugged driver can easily miss seeing a pedestrian, especially at night or in poor weather.
Whenever you are walking the streets, do not assume drivers are looking out for pedestrians – just because it is the law. You should always practice defensive walking. Additionally, only use designated crosswalks and do not walk on the street.
If you have been injured in a pedestrian accident caused by a negligent driver in Texas, call the Dallas personal injury attorneys at Mathias Raphael PLLC Accident & Injury Lawyers at (214) 739-0100 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a free consultation. We also have an office in Chicago, IL!