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Pedestrian Accidents

When a motor vehicle collides with a pedestrian, there is a high risk of serious personal injury or death. Pedestrian/motor vehicle accidents are a serious problem in the United States.

Data from the most recent National Highway Traffic Safety Administration information indicates that in 2009, 4032 pedestrians were killed and an estimated 59,000 were injured in traffic crashes in the United States. On average, a pedestrian is killed every two hours and injured every nine minutes in traffic crashes.

Older pedestrians (age 65+) accounted for 19 percent of all pedestrian fatalities and an estimated 8 percent of all pedestrians injured in 2009. In that same year, one-fifth of all children between the ages of 5 and 9 who were killed in traffic crashes were pedestrians. Children age 15 and younger accounted for 7 percent of the pedestrian fatalities and 25 percent of all pedestrians injured in traffic crashes. Forty percent of all young (under 16) pedestrian fatalities occurred between 3 and 7 p.m.
Many factors may contribute to pedestrian accidents. Negligence is one of the most common factors. Motorists have a responsibility to adhere to the laws of the road and drive in a safe and observant manner at all times. Some common negligent practices by motorists include:

  • Inattentive or distracted drivers
    • Driver’s failure to observe posted speed limits
    • Driver’s failure to yield the right of way to pedestrians at marked cross walks
    • Driver’s disregard for traffic control devices

Also remember these safety tips:

  • Drivers are required to yield the right-of-way to pedestrians crossing streets in marked or unmarked crosswalks in most situations. They need to be especially careful at intersections where the failure to yield right-of-way often occurs when drivers are turning onto another street and a pedestrian is in their path.
  • When possible, cross the street at a designated crosswalk. Always stop and look left, right and left again before crossing. If a parked vehicle is blocking the view of the street, stop at the edge line of the vehicle and look around it before entering the street.
  • Increase visibility at night by carrying a flashlight when walking and by wearing retro-reflective clothing that helps to highlight body movements.
  • It is much safer to walk on a sidewalk, but if you must walk in the street, walk facing traffic.

Gump & Faiella  has over 90 years of combined experience representing those who need their voice to be heard. We have a solid history of finding success for clients and we believe this is because of our unrelenting dedication to helping others. If you believe you have a claim, we urge you to contact us as soon as possible. Let us help you achieve justice and help you move forward.

 

 

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