How to Prevent a Pedestrian Accident
When a pedestrian accident happens, no matter whose fault it is, the pedestrian always comes off worse. Pedestrians are so vulnerable that even being clipped by a person on a bicycle can lead to injury. Drivers and pedestrians alike need to observe safety rules when they are out on the street, but it would be common sense for pedestrians to take them much more seriously as they are the ones risking life and limb when they don’t. Pedestrians are found to be at fault 43% of the time in car-pedestrian accidents.
Be alert and look both ways
Pedestrians take a lot of things for granted, such as a motorist will stop for them when they cross the street, or that a crosswalk is always a safe place to cross. Motorists do usually stop for pedestrians, but not always, and certainly when they are distracted. A crosswalk does not have an invisible force field to automatically protect pedestrians. The best thing to do when crossing the street is to look both ways, be wary of reckless drivers, and to give way to oncoming traffic when crossing where there is no walk signal or crosswalk.
Walk towards traffic
One type of pedestrian accident is being sideswiped while walking where there is no sidewalk, such as the highway. To prevent this, pedestrians should walk on the side facing traffic, so that any potential danger can be anticipated. A pedestrian walking with his or her back to traffic will not be able to see what is going on and will have no time to react.
Take a bus
Some pedestrians meet with accidents because they have been drinking. They are more likely to cross the street inadvisably, walk in the middle of the street, or fail to react in time to a potentially dangerous situation. It would be better to wait for sobriety, take public transportation, or have someone sober as an escort.
Wear bright clothing at night
It is harder for drivers to see pedestrians at night, so avoid it when possible. If it is necessary, wear bright clothing and be extra alert for trouble. When walking with children, make sure they are on the side away from the road, day or night.
There is a lot of attention brought to the behavior of drivers, but when it comes to pedestrian accident both sides need to do their part to avoid it. If you are involved in a pedestrian accident through no fault of your own, the consequences can be devastating in many ways, including financial. Contact a pedestrian accident lawyer to see if your case is eligible for compensation.