The simple act of putting on a seat belt is a subtle reminder that riding in a motor vehicle is inherently dangerous, and there is always the chance of getting into a collision. There are no such reminders for pedestrians, though, and as a result, people on foot may rarely think about the potential risks of walking in or near traffic.
Abstract blurred snowy and rainy person walk with yellow umbrella. View from rainy car glass window. Conceptual bad weather background.
Sadly, pedestrian accidents can and do occur, and they are far more common than most people realize. According to the American Association of Retired Persons, someone on foot sustains injuries in a traffic accident approximately every eight minutes. Additionally, a fatal pedestrian accident occurs every two hours.
Both motorists and pedestrians can take steps to reduce the number of devastating collisions; however, there will likely always be drunk, distracted, or reckless drivers on the roads. If you were hurt in a pedestrian accident that was not your fault, contact Heilman Law Group.
You may be eligible for compensation to cover the costs associated with treating your injuries, and we will fight relentlessly on your behalf to help you get it. Call 601-914-1025 to schedule a case evaluation with a Jackson accident law attorney.
Read on to learn how you can avoid pedestrian accidents:
Tips for Motorists
Many of the same precautionary measures that reduce the risk of collisions in general are also effective at reducing the risk of pedestrian accidents. These include:
- Eliminating distractions;
- Checking mirrors and blind spots;
- Preparing to stop at intersections and crosswalks;
- Yielding to pedestrians who are already crossing;
- Keeping the windshield free of dirt, debris, and obstructions;
- Adjusting your speed for the weather and road conditions;
- Coming to a complete stop at stop signs;
- Following all traffic signals; and
- Slowing down around playgrounds, schools, and suburban areas where children are likely playing.
Tips for Pedestrians
Although pedestrians typically have the right of way in crosswalks, you should still exercise caution when you are on foot, and you should never assume that a motorist has seen you unless you actually make eye contact. Other ways to stay safe when walking near traffic include:
- Looking both ways before crossing the street;
- Abiding by the street signs and traffic signals at intersections;
- Wearing reflective gear when walking at night;
- Staying on the sidewalk whenever possible;
- Paying attention to your surroundings; and
- Remaining alert for speeding or swerving drivers when crossing the street.
The above tips can help you avoid some of the most common pedestrian accidents; however, there are dozens of possible causes of such crashes, and the only foolproof way to avoid a devastating collision is to stay off the road entirely. All it takes is one negligent motorist to cause serious injuries.
If you were hurt in a pedestrian accident with a drunk, distracted, or drowsy driver, contact Heilman Law Group. A Jackson car accident lawyer will assess the details of your case to determine the types of damages you may be able to include in the settlement.
Call 601-914-1025 to schedule a consultation. If you want to learn more about car accident claims in Mississippi, visit the USAttorneys website.
