Everyone is a pedestrian at one time or another each day. It is, unfortunate, however, that not all drivers observe the rules of the road governing the right of way at stop signs, stoplights, or crosswalks.
Approximately 5,900 pedestrians were killed by drivers of cars last year and more than 100,000 pedestrians were injured by automobile drivers last year according to the National Safety Council. Statistically, young children and the elderly are more likely to be killed or injured in a pedestrian accident.
Since most state laws give the right away to pedestrians, automobile drivers must stop to allow bicycles and pedestrians to cross the road within an unmarked or marked crosswalk. A legal crosswalk exists at all locations where the roads intersect and a legal crosswalk exists even if it is not marked as such.
Pedestrian accidents are usually the result of negligence on the part of the automobile driver. Some of the common driver’s faults include: Failure of the driver to yield the right of way; Failure of the driver to stop at an unmarked or marked crosswalk; Failure of the driver to come to a complete stop at a stop light or sign; Failure of the driver to stop before turning right on red at an intersection; Failure of the driver to provide enough room for bicyclists or pedestrians on a road or street, and; The driver speeding or failure of the driver to keep a proper lookout.
If you or a loved was injured in an accident as a pedestrian, you need to contact a personal injury lawyer immediately to ensure that your rights are protected and those who are responsible are held accountable for their actions.
Make sure you gather all important contact information from all bystanders at the scene of the accident. The insurance will most certainly try to have you sign all kinds of releases with the promise of a small payout. Don’t be misled by their promise to help you. They do not have you’re your best interest at heart; they have their own agenda.
If you are injured and are unable to go to a lawyer’s office most will come to see you. There is no charge for an initial consultation, and the personal injury attorney has every reason to fight for the best possible payout because they does not get paid unless you do.
