According to augerlaw.com, a pedestrian is killed in a traffic accident every two hours. Sadly, auto accidents involving pedestrians can be especially traumatic, so it’s imperative for individuals to understand and avoid them at all costs. Consequences of Pedestrian Accidents

The consequences related to pedestrian accidents can be varied and severe. A pedestrian may obviously face substantial injuries due to the accident. These injuries can lead to excessively long term medical costs, and sadly, these incidents may even ultimately result in the death of a victim.

Drivers involved in pedestrian accidents also face consequences, and even though they usually aren’t as severe as those faced by the pedestrian, they may still be substantial. A negligent driver will usually be at fault for a person’s medical bills and even damages related to pain and suffering. These types of accidents can be disastrous for the victims, so the law usually protects these individuals.

Those who are injured in pedestrian accidents have the option of getting an attorney to help recover costs. Having legal help will increase an individual’s chances of receiving fair compensation, and since insurance companies like to avoid the courtroom, simply having an attorney may result in a fair settlement offer from the outset.

Avoiding Pedestrian Accidents

The best way to avoid the aforementioned consequences is to avoid a pedestrian accident altogether. Luckily, this isn’t a matter of luck; and those who take proactive measures can protect themselves and others on the road.

Driver Techniques

Check the Right: Too many people simply check their left side when turning right onto a perpendicular street. This is because any dangerous approaching traffic is likely coming from that direction. It’s important to note, however, that pedestrians often enter the crosswalk to the right of a car. An individual who doesn’t look to the right before turning can easily strike a pedestrian.

Avoid Distracted Driving: Distracted driving leads to a majority of auto accidents that occur. Sadly, an individual texting and driving can strike a pedestrian just as easily as they can rear end another vehicle. It’s imperative to always be vigilant when driving.

Pedestrian Safety Tips

Use Sidewalks: Sidewalks are built specifically for pedestrian safety, so they should always be used. If there is no sidewalk, it’s imperative to walk on the side of the road that faces oncoming traffic.

Cross at Street Corners: If possible, a person should only cross at street corners. This will give them the ability to see all oncoming traffic. Crossing at corners with stop signs or traffic lights is ideal.

Be Aware of Drivers: It’s a driver’s responsibility to see pedestrians, but this simple fact won’t prevent a serious injury if a person is struck. Always take notice of whether a driver is paying attention or not, and it’s also a good idea to make eye contact with an oncoming driver before attempting to cross. This ensures that they see the pedestrian.

Thousands of pedestrians are killed every year in the United States. The sad fact is that many of these incidents could be avoided with just a little vigilance on the part of drivers and pedestrians. Pedestrians who are injured due to a driver’s negligence should immediately seek legal help. This is less of a way to get money and more of a way to ensure that financial liabilities caused by the accident are handled. These types of injuries can become very expensive, and it’s not fair for an injured pedestrian to have to cover them on their own.

Melanie Fleury’s close family friend was killed in a car accident while waiting to cross the street. One attorney at www.augerlaw.com is an avid runner who sees firsthand the dangers that a pedestrian faces on the road. If you are injured by a car, you may be eligible to receive compensation for your injuries and lost wages.