We often hear about car and truck accidents, but what about pedestrian accidents? At The Law Offices of Marion M. Moses, LLC, our goal is to bring pedestrian safety to the top of your mind so as you’re out enjoying the summer, you’re staying safe.
Statistics about Pedestrian Accidents
- In 2019, over 7,500 pedestrians were killed in traffic accidents.
- Of those fatalities, the majority occurred in urban areas and at non-intersections.
- Most pedestrian accidents happen when it is dark outside (80%).
- Pedestrian accidents peak on Saturdays.
- Over 76,000 pedestrians were injured in 2019.
- Rates of pedestrian accidents increased by over 46% over the span of the 2010s.
- South Carolina ranks fourth for having the most pedestrian fatalities.
Common Circumstances Surrounding Pedestrian Accidents
There are numerous causes of pedestrian accidents. Let’s go over some of the most common.
Reckless Drivers
Drivers should always be paying attention to their surroundings, including pedestrians. Drivers who are distracted, texting, or impaired are more likely to fail to notice pedestrians on the roads and in crosswalks. Reckless drivers are a danger to other vehicles and all pedestrians, even those who are following the rules of the road.
Bad Weather
Bad weather can affect pedestrians in multiple ways. First, a pedestrian may slip and fall into traffic if they hit a wet or icy patch on the pavement. Additionally, slick roads can make it difficult for drivers to come to a complete stop before colliding with a pedestrian.
Poor Visibility in the Dark
As mentioned above, a majority of pedestrian accidents happen in the dark. Pedestrians should plan ahead and wear reflective or bright clothing whenever they will be out walking at night. If you catch yourself in a bind and don’t have any protective wear, use your phone flashlight to light up where you’re walking.
Left Turns
Most drivers agree, left turns can be stressful. Unfortunately, some drivers do not calculate pedestrians into their plans for when they make a lefthand turn. An unobservant driver might hit pedestrians who are crossing in the crosswalk.
In fact, left turns are one of the leading reasons for pedestrian accidents on crosswalks.
Obstacles for Pedestrians
Pedestrians may be forced to leave the sidewalk and walk on the main roads if there are obstacles in their path, like construction.
The Most Common Pedestrian Injuries
Unfortunately, pedestrian injuries can be quite severe. Pedestrians have no protection, whereas car passengers have airbags, doors, windshields, and more to provide a layer of safety.
Some common injuries include:
- Traumatic brain injury
- Musculoskeletal injuries
- Internal bleeding
- Spinal cord injury
- Sprains and lacerations
A major factor in the severity of the pedestrian injury is the speed at which the car collided with the pedestrian. For a detailed list of how the chance of severe injury increases as car speed increases, click here.
Can The Pedestrian Be Held Liable?
Many people know the phrase “pedestrians always have the right of way.” Well, it’s not always true. Technically, pedestrians can be held responsible for a pedestrian accident. This may be the case if the pedestrian jumped out in front of a moving car, or otherwise put themselves in direct danger. However, it is most likely that the driver is the one who will be held liable in a personal injury lawsuit.
Personal Injury After a Pedestrian Accident
If you were hit by a car, you deserve to seek compensation. This can be accomplished through a personal injury lawsuit. You may hold the driver, or another liable party responsible for your damages.
You may receive compensation for:
- Medical bills
- Physical therapy
- Pain and suffering
- Lost income from time off of work
Don’t feel as though you have to file a claim alone. Working with an experienced personal injury attorney will take a large burden off you, allowing you to focus on healing while your lawyer handles the complexities of your personal injury claim.
South Carolina Pedestrian Injury Attorney
The statute of limitations for pedestrian injury claims is three years. Don’t delay, get started on your claim today with The Law Offices of Marion M. Moses, LLC. Our attorney can help you throughout the process and advocate for you to get the compensation you deserve. Click here to request an initial case consultation and get the personalized attention you deserve.