Pedestrian accidents are more common than you might think. According to the Pedestrian and Bicycle Information Center, 4,735 pedestrians died in car crashes in 2013. In the same year, there were approximately 66,000 reported pedestrian injuries.
A pedestrian accident can cause fractures, brain trauma, abdominal injuries and worse. The medical bills can be overwhelmingly expensive, and some victims cannot return to work. In serious cases, pedestrian crashes cause paralysis or irreversible disfigurement.
If you or a loved one was injured by a distracted driver, contact Morris Bart, LLC. A Baton Rouge personal-injury attorney can evaluate your case to determine if you may have grounds for a claim. A successful lawsuit may help you avoid insurmountable debt and even bankruptcy.
Schedule a consultation today by calling 800-537-8185. Until then, read on to learn how to avoid three common pedestrian accidents:
Turning Vehicle at Intersection
A significant number of pedestrian accidents involve cars that are turning at intersections. Drivers who turn right at red lights without looking can collide with a pedestrian or cyclist who is using the crosswalk.
As a pedestrian, you should always be vigilant at intersections. Stay on the sidewalk if you notice a vehicle that might turn right on red. Do not cross until you make eye contact with that driver. If you are driving, always check your blind spot before turning right to make sure a pedestrian or cyclist is not crossing the road.
For a free legal consultation, call 800-537-8185
Pedestrians Stepping into the Road
Pedestrians who step into the road are risking an accident with an unsuspecting driver. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, these crashes are particularly common when pedestrians step into the road from the middle of a block, because this is where drivers are least likely to expect it.
These collisions often involve children. Young kids may chase balls into the road or lose control while riding a bicycle or skateboard. This is why drivers should be vigilant near schools, parks and residential areas.
Pedestrians may be able to prevent these accidents by crossing the road only on designated paths. Educate your children about the dangers of traffic, and do not allow them to play sports adjacent to busy roads or intersections.
Walking or Jogging with Traffic
It is safer to jog or walk in the opposite direction of traffic. If you run or walk with your back to traffic, you may not notice oncoming cars approaching from behind. You may also be oblivious to a dangerous situation unfolding behind you such as a swerving car or reckless driver.
The best way to avoid this type of accident is to walk or jog on a demarcated sidewalk. If there is no sidewalk available, walk or run against traffic.
Always wear brightly colored clothing, and avoid being on the roads at night. If you must walk or run in the dark, wear reflective equipment.
If you were injured by a negligent driver, contact an accident attorney in Louisiana from Morris Bart, LLC. Call 800-537-8185 to schedule a consultation.
Questions?Call 800-537-8185
to find a Morris Bart office near you.
