Decatur Pedestrian Accidents Lawyers
Motorists have an obligation to share the roadways with others, and this includes pedestrians. However, pedestrians cannot always take their safety for granted. Drivers may be distracted, in a hurry, or under the influence. This may cause them to not see a pedestrian in the roadway.
Pedestrian accidents involving vehicles are not typically minor events. They can cause a variety of major injuries, which can be long-term and costly to treat. Keep your recovery on track with help from the Decatur pedestrian accidents lawyers at Shiver Hamilton Campbell. We will provide you with aggressive representation so you obtain the compensation you need to pay for all your damages.
Risk Factors
There are several factors that can increase one’s risk of becoming a victim of a pedestrian accident. They include the following:
- Age. Young children and the elderly are more likely to become victims. This is likely because children are often unaware of the dangers of being on the road, while older people tend to move more slowly and may not see or hear as well as those who are younger.
- Alcohol. Nearly half of fatal pedestrian accidents involve alcohol use, whether it’s the driver or pedestrian who is under the influence. Of those, one-third are over the legal limit, with a blood alcohol content (BAC) exceeding 0.08.
- Time of day. Most pedestrian accidents happen at night, when visibility is decreased.
- Location. Pedestrian crashes happen more often in urban areas and not at intersections. Rural areas tend to see fewer crashes.
- Vehicle speed. The faster a vehicle is going, the more likely a pedestrian will be hit by a car. Plus, higher speeds equate to more severe injuries.
Pedestrian Safety
Given the risk factors listed above, here are some ways that pedestrians can stay safe while traveling the roadways with motor vehicles:
- Look both ways before crossing a street.
- Cross at intersections when available.
- Use sidewalks when available.
- Obey traffic signs and signals.
- Use a flashlight and wear reflective clothing if you will be out at night so drivers can see you better.
- Be careful of cars backing up in driveways and parking lots.
- Avoid alcohol and drugs.
Here are some tips for motorists:
- Yield to pedestrians in crosswalks.
- Drive the speed limit, especially in school zones, where children are present.
- Be extra cautious at night and in inclement weather.
- Watch for children when backing up.
- Never pass vehicles at crosswalks.
- Slow down when turning at a crosswalk.
- Avoid alcohol and drug use.
Contact Our Decatur Pedestrian Accidents Lawyers Today
Pedestrian accidents can cause significant damages. If you have been a victim, you need to act quickly. Under state law, you have just two years to file a claim for compensation, so don’t miss out.
The Decatur lawyers at Shiver Hamilton Campbell can review your accident case and help you understand your legal options. Let us guide you through the process. Schedule a free consultation by filling out the online form or calling (877) 215-6111.
