Pedestrian Accident Law Firm

According to national statistics, there are more than 5,000 people injured in pedestrian accidents every year, many of them fatally. The majority of these accidents are preventable if only the driver of the vehicle or pedestrian was taking the proper safety precautions.

The following tips are some ways that pedestrian accidents can be prevented:

Stay alert and aware while on the road: Whether a person is behind the wheel or walking along the road, it is critical to pay attention to what is going on around you. Not only should drivers not text and drive, but pedestrians should also avoid distracting behavior. It is also recommended that pedestrians do not wear earbuds that block the noise of what is going on around them.

Do not drink or take drugs: Everyone is aware of the dangers of drinking and driving and how alcohol or drugs affect a person’s ability to operate a vehicle. However, it is also recommended that pedestrians should avoid walking while intoxicated. Alcohol and drugs can cause people to swerve and lose their balance, which could lead to a pedestrian walking into the middle of the road or into traffic.

Make sure you are seen: If you are driving a car at night, make sure you have your headlights turned on before the sunsets. It is also to keep your headlights on in the early morning hours, when it is raining, snowing, or foggy. This makes it easier for a pedestrian to see you coming. Pedestrians should never walk at night in dark clothing that makes it difficult, if not impossible, to see them. White or reflective garments can help keep pedestrians safe.

Look out for crosswalks: Pedestrians should always look for crosswalks if they are planning on crossing a busy street. Most municipalities have crosswalk with painted lines, traffic signal, and signs that alert vehicle drivers that pedestrians are in the area. When there is a traffic signal, make sure to wait until it signals that it is okay to cross before stepping of the curb. Vehicle drivers must always be aware of crosswalks because that is where pedestrians will be crossing. In many cities, drivers are required to stop if a pedestrian is at a crosswalk waiting to cross, whether there is at traffic signal there or not.

Let a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Help

No matter how many safety tips you follow, you are always at risk of someone else not following the same tips and find yourself the victim of a pedestrian accident. If this happens, the law allows you to seek damages for the losses your injuries cause, including medical expenses, loss of income, pain, suffering, emotional anguish, permanent disability, scarring, and disfigurement.

Contact a pedestrian accident law firm New York, NY offers today to find out how a pedestrian accident can help you get the financial compensation you may be entitled to.

Thanks to Okun, Oddo, & Babat, P.C. for their insight into personal injury claims and safety tips for pedestrians.