When you fall victim to personal injuries, such as pedestrian accidents, it can cause significant physical and mental distress. According to statistics, in the United States, around 70,000 pedestrians get injured every year, and more than four thousand get killed. Only 11 percent of travel in the US is by foot, but pedestrian accidents account for 13 percent of accident-related deaths.
When you suffer from the mistakes of others, you must get the compensation you deserve; however, negligent parties often contest your claims in these cases. Hiring a personal injury lawyer to defend your rights and get justice is vital. Visit https://therawlinsfirm.com to learn more about how a lawyer will defend your rights in a pedestrian accident case.
A few contributing factors lead to these large numbers, five of which are mentioned below.
Failing To Understand Pedestrian Rights
Right of way means the legal right of the motorist or the pedestrian to proceed in any particular situation. For example, if the traffic signal shows pedestrian signals to proceed to the crosswalk, the motorist must allow the pedestrian to cross the road and wait before driving. If the motorist or the pedestrian fails to follow the right of way, it is a traffic violation. If the motorist is involved in a traffic violation that leads to a pedestrian accident, then the walker has the right to file for compensation. The lawyers guide the pedestrian through all the legal steps in this situation.
Distracted Driving
One of the common causes of pedestrian accidents is distracted driving. According to CDC, in 2019, distracted driving caused around 3100 fatalities and nearly 424000 injuries. Due to these large numbers, lawmakers are passing laws to help minimize these distracted driving cases. In fact, in California, there are four major distracted driving laws. The first two laws prohibit drivers from using handheld mobile phones while driving.
The third law prohibits individuals under 18 from using handheld devices while driving but also prohibits using hands-free devices. The last one prohibits drivers from texting while they are behind the wheel. If the accident occurred due to distracted driving, the victim has the right to seek justice and file the case.
Driving Under Influence
DWI, or driving while intoxicated, is also one of the major causes of accidents. According to statistics, around 32 people are killed every day due to driving under the influence of alcohol. The pedestrian or driver with a high level of alcohol in their system can cause an accident.
Exceeding The Speed Limit
Suppose the driver exceeds the speed limit; the chances of getting into an accident increase. According to a study by St Berkley, it was shown that when there is an increase of even one percent in speed, the chance of getting involved in an accident decreases by two percent.
Not Using Signals While Turning
Pedestrians have to look out for themselves too. There are several rules under California law for pedestrians, such as pedestrians can only cross the road via crosswalks, and they should also follow the signs like motorists. Your responsibility also includes giving the right of way to the turning cars. However, this is where most drivers fail, as many fail to give turning signs at the intersection. If this is the case, it is the driver’s fault, not the pedestrian’s, if an accident occurs.
Conclusion
Summing up, pedestrian accidents are common; however, it does not mean the guilty party should not be held responsible. In most cases, it is the driver’s fault, but you must take it to the right firm, and hiring a personal injury lawyer is essential. The lawyer is on your side, and they assist you in getting reasonable compensation for your pain, injuries, and suffering.
