Pedestrians are everywhere. Whether you’re walking from your car to a restaurant across the street, or just taking a casual walk through the neighborhood. People walking on foot are considered pedestrians. Merriam-Webster’s Dictionary defines a pedestrian as “going or performed on foot.”
With more distracted drivers on the road than ever, the potential for car accidents that injure pedestrians are on the rise. Some of the most common causes of pedestrian injuries from a car accident are drivers that fail to check for pedestrians in crosswalks before proceeding, drivers failing to stop at red lights or stop signs, and texting while driving.
The Texas Department of Transportation reported that in 2016, pedestrian fatalities totaled 678, which is a 21.5% increase from 2015. Regardless of how a pedestrian accident is caused, it almost always result in injury. Injuries that are typical after a car hits a pedestrian are road rash, cuts, deep bruising, broken bones, herniated discs, brain trauma, and sometimes even death. It is extremely important to be fully aware of moving vehicles as a pedestrian while driving, and equally important to be aware of marked crosswalks and to make yourself visible when walking.
Safety Tips for Pedestrians:
1) Wear bright clothing so drivers can see you
2) Only cross at designated crosswalks
3) Do not walk on the highway
4) Stay on the sidewalk or designated walking path
If you or a loved one was injured as a pedestrian after being hit by a distracted and reckless driver, contact The Patel Firm PLLC today for a free case consultation. At our personal injury law firm, we will discuss your options and explain your rights, every time, no exceptions. We work closely with our clients to hold the wrongdoer accountable for their medical bills, injuries, and pain and suffering. 24/7/365, someone at The Patel Firm PLLC is ready to take your call. Contact us today by calling us at (361) 400-2036.
