Mistakes by either motorists or pedestrians can lead to serious accidents, many of which are easily preventable. This article will cover some of the main causes of pedestrian accidents and what drivers and people on foot can do to try to prevent these collisions.
If you’ve been injured in a pedestrian accident, you do not have to deal with the aftermath by yourself. An Arkansas pedestrian accident attorney can help you go after money damages from the at-fault party.
Here are some causes of collisions between cars and pedestrians and ways to prevent them, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA):
Pedestrian Darts or Steps Out Midblock
Suppose a person on foot walks or runs into the street in the middle of a block, in an unmarked area, and gets hit by a car or truck. The pedestrian was not in a crosswalk or at an intersection. Prevention tips:
- When available, walkers should cross the street at a crosswalk, obeying pedestrian crossing signals. Avoid crossing the street in the middle of the block.
- Drivers need to slow down and be aware of their surroundings, particularly in places likely to have pedestrians, like shopping centers, residential areas, and school zones. When you see people on the side of the road, be on guard for someone to dash onto the street without looking.
Vehicle Turns at an Intersection into the Path of a Pedestrian
Whether turning right or left at an intersection, a vehicle might turn into a pedestrian’s path without yielding, causing a collision. These collisions also happen when cars are turning right on red or when pulling into or out of an alley or driveway. Prevention tips:
- Pedestrians should look for turning vehicles at intersections, and be aware that not everyone stops at stop signs or red lights. Try to make eye contact with drivers before crossing the street. Stay within the boundaries of the crosswalk, and obey traffic signals. Do not assume that the driver has seen you.
- Drivers should look before turning, checking for pedestrians, bicyclists, and other vehicles. Yield to pedestrians and bicyclists, particularly when they are in crosswalks. Come to a complete stop when turning right on red. Proceed forward only when your path is clear of pedestrians and bicyclists.
Pedestrian Running or Jogging Along the Road
Motor vehicles sometimes strike people who are walking or running in the roadway, especially when the pedestrian does not see the car. Prevention tips:
- Whenever possible, use sidewalks or paths to walk or run, rather than traffic lanes designated for vehicles. Drivers might be distracted, and running in the street involves a high risk of injury. If there is no sidewalk or path, you will want to stay on the shoulder or as far away from traffic as possible, and face traffic while you walk or run. Also, you should wear bright-colored clothing during daylight hours and reflective gear and lights when walking after dark.
- Drivers should slow down and remain alert and focused at all times when behind the wheel. Keep a constant lookout for people walking or running in the road, particularly when there are no sidewalks available. Be even more diligent when driving at night. Day or night, be prepared to slow or stop in case a pedestrian enters your path.
These are but a few examples of the many ways that pedestrians can be injured. If you get hurt in a pedestrian collision, you will want to talk to an Arkansas personal injury attorney about your legal options. Get in touch with our office today for help with your case.
