Pedestrian Safety
Pedestrians and drivers of vehicles all have rules they must follow in order to ensure everyone’s safety. Pedestrians can be injured when drivers fail to obey certain rules of the road. Injuries to pedestrians can be very serious and result in costly medical bills and pain and suffering. Some injuries can result in the wrongful death of the pedestrian.
Drivers can cause a pedestrian accident by:
- Failing to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks
- Speeding through residential areas
- Driving too close to sidewalks
- Being distracted or intoxicated
- Failing to drive with caution in bad weather and where children play
Pedestrian accidents can also be the cause of unsafe sidewalks and parking lots, property such as parks that are inadequately maintained, and unsafe construction areas. It is the responsibility of the property owner to properly maintain the areas in which pedestrians frequent. Accidents may occur when a property owner or driver fail to do their part keep everyone safe.
Steps Toward Pedestrian Safety
As a pedestrian, it is important to realize that others may not act in a responsible manner and that their actions can cause an accident. There are steps you can take to ensure the safety of you and your family.
While taking walks, be sure to use the sidewalks and the crosswalks. Take care while using sidewalks and avoid sidewalks that look unsafe. Do not cross on a crosswalk without looking in all directions. Look right and left as well as over your shoulder to make sure that no cars are coming. If you are in a crosswalk and a car is approaching, look to see if the driver sees you. You are more likely to see the car before the driver sees you.
Discuss all safety precautions with your children so they know how to keep themselves safe. Tell them where the safe areas are to play and why it is dangerous to run out into a street. Go with your children to the park or playground to make sure the area is safe for play. Some playgrounds may have faulty equipment or dangerous areas that may injure your children.
Pedestrians go to public areas and use sidewalks all year long. More pedestrians are out enjoying the weather during the summertime months. Summertime safety is an important part of pedestrian safety. Taking the necessary steps to keep you and your family safe all year long will help prevent accidents from causing you and your loved ones injuries.
If you have suffered an injury in a pedestrian accident and need help taking the required legal steps for a successful case, please contact us today so we can help you locate an injury attorney in your area.