5 Common Causes Of Pedestrian Accidents
There are a lot of conditions that can cause or contribute to pedestrian accidents, like speeding, ignoring traffic signals, or distracted driving. Even weather conditions can play a role in causing some pedestrian accidents. Unfortunately, these accidents occur much more often than most people realize. For instance, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimated that more than 100,000 people were treated in emergency rooms after pedestrian accidents in 2020 alone.
Distracted Driving
Pedestrian accidents, like any type of car crash, can occur just about anywhere and at any time. Many of these collisions have, however, been linked to distracted driving, which occurs when a driver redirects his or her attention to something besides driving. Common distractions include:
- Texting;
- Talking on the phone;
- Eating or drinking;
- Using a navigation system;
- Talking to a passenger; or
- Adjusting the radio.
A distracted driver might not see an approaching pedestrian at all, or at least not in time to avoid a collision. Unfortunately, the results of these collisions are often serious, as they tend to occur at high speeds.
Speeding
Drivers who speed put anyone else who is on the road at the same time in danger. The faster a car travels, the more significant the impact in the event of a collision, especially for vulnerable road users, like pedestrians. Speeding generally makes it more likely that a driver will lose control of a vehicle, while also increasing stopping distance and the damage suffered by victims.
Failure to Yield
Another common cause of pedestrian accidents is failing to yield, especially at intersections and crosswalks. By ignoring traffic signals, like stop signs, red lights, yield signs, and crosswalks, drivers can put pedestrians at a serious risk of injury. These kinds of accidents often involve left-turns, as drivers generally have reduced visibility when making left-hand turns and often accelerate when doing so.
Driving Under the Influence
Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is always dangerous, but can be deadly for pedestrians. Intoxicated drivers have reduced coordination, impaired perception, and flawed judgment, all of which make it more likely that they will fail to follow the speed limit, use their headlights at night, or to obey traffic signals. All of these actions could result in a collision, which is much more likely to have serious consequences for the pedestrian.
Weather Conditions
The weather conditions can also play a significant role in causing or contributing to pedestrian accidents. Rain and fog can, for instance, impair visibility, making it hard for pedestrians and motorists to see each other. Even bright sun can cause a glare on a driver’s windshield, temporarily blinding that person. Poor weather conditions do not, however, absolve a negligent driver of responsibility for causing a pedestrian accident.
You Could be Entitled to Compensation
To speak with an experienced Decatur pedestrian accident lawyer about your own legal options following a pedestrian accident, don’t hesitate to call Shiver Hamilton Campbell at 404-593-0020 today. A member of our team is standing by to address your questions and concerns.
Sources:
cdc.gov/transportationsafety/pedestrian_safety/index.html
nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/speeding
