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At some time in your life, all of us are pedestrians. Whether we commute to and from work, walk from the parking ramp or parking lot into a restaurant or shop, or go out on a walk for exercise or leisure, walking outdoors is something we all do at points in our life. After all, walking is healthly and good for you, but unfortunately, being a pedestrian can be a dangerous proposition at times.
Once again, pedestrian accidents are on the rise, but why?
A report by NPR cites three major reasons for the recent increase in pedestrian deaths:
Growth In Pedestrian Traffic: The population here in the United States has seen significant growth over the past few decades. Naturally, the more citizens living in the country, the more they’re going to be out and about living life. Our society has also become more health conscious, so we have more residents exercising, walking outdoors is a favorite activity. This means that in Massachusetts and most other states, we have more people out walking than ever before.
Larger Vehicles: Over the past decade, the price of fuel has dropped, and at the same time, the economy has improved. While fuel has increased in 2021, it hasn’t slowed down Americans from purchasing SUVs, trucks and other large vehicles. These types of vehicles usually have a higher ground clearance, which makes it more difficult to see someone who was crossing the street. In addition, when a pedestrian is struck by a large vehicle, there is a greater chance of serious injuries.
Smartphone Activity: If you go back 10 years ago, they were far less citizens with smartphones. In 2021, there is a strong desire to “stay connected”. Due to this, we’re seeing more pedestrian accidents cause by smartphones. Think about it, how many times have you passed someone on the freeway using a smartphone? Motorists and pedestrians frequently use their phones, whether it’s taking selfies, recording videos, or using their smartphone for a GPS. Most experts believe that distracted driving and distracted walking that is triggered by smart phone use are among the primary factors that is driving the increase in pedestrian accidents.
For more than 17 years, the pedestrian accident lawyers at Faneuf Law Group LLC have represented pedestrian accident victims and their families in Woburn and throughout the state of Massachusetts. Our lawyers have earned designation among the Best Lawyers in America and among the nation’s Best Law Firms in recognition of their extensive experience and record of success. If you or someone you love were hit by a car or other motor vehicles, contact us for a free consultation. We do not collect a fee unless we win your case.
We understand your concerns and are ready to do whatever it takes to make sure you are properly compensated for your injuries or the loss of your loved one. Our award-winning team of lawyers won’t rest until you get the justice you deserve for your accident. See our testimonials to learn what our clients and peers have to say about Faneuf Law Group.
How Pedestrian Accidents Happen
When drivers are not paying attention to the road, the end result can be terrible, especially for pedestrians. Here are a few common causes of pedestrian-car accidents:
The driver was distracted by a smartphone, tablet, computer, etc
The driver hasn’t slept, too tired to be fully alert
Crosswalk may be defective, including failure to consider upstream and downstream traffic flows
Failure to stop at a red signal light
Motor vehicles and bikes not yielding for pedestrians at crosswalks
Turning at intersections without looking both ways
Failure to abide by set speed limits
Driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol
When you consider where pedestrian accidents occur the most, it’s usually urban areas such as Woburn. Urban areas have a much higher number of pedestrian accidents than rural areas. Even so, accidents can happen in the country as well. Winding roads with limited visibility and high speeds can create the unfortunate recipe of a serious crash. Car accidents can involve pedestrians, as well as other motor vehicles, such as buses and trucks.
WHen Pedestrians are Hit By Cars, Serious Injuries Can Occur
Pedestrian accidents are usually catastrophic because the human body is not designed to take damage that’s caused by a collision with a vehicle. The impact of being hit with a vehicle can cause severe injuries, including but not limited to:
Deep cuts (lacerations) and bruises (contusions), including damage to major organs
Dental or facial injuries, which may include eye injuries and loss of vision
Head injuries, including concussion and more severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) or coma
Orthopedic injuries, including broken bones or damage to other parts of the musculo-skeletal system
Spinal cord injuries, including paralysis or other loss of function
At some point in the day, everyone is a pedestrian, and unfortunately, pedestrian fatalities remain high. There was a more than 3% increase in the number of pedestrians killed in traffic crashes in 2018, totaling 6,283 deaths — the most deaths since 1990. NHTSA raises awareness of the dangers to pedestrians by providing safety tips, educational material, and other resources. Find out how to protect yourself and your loved ones when walking, and learn how you can help us prevent pedestrian injuries and deaths.
10 Walking Safety Tips FROM NHTSA
Be predictable. Follow the rules of the road and obey signs and signals.
Walk on sidewalks whenever they are available.
If there is no sidewalk, walk facing traffic and as far from traffic as possible.
Keep alert at all times; don’t be distracted by electronic devices that take your eyes (and ears) off the road.
Whenever possible, cross streets at crosswalks or intersections, where drivers expect pedestrians. Look for cars in all directions, including those turning left or right.
If a crosswalk or intersection is not available, locate a well-lit area where you have the best view of traffic. Wait for a gap in traffic that allows enough time to cross safely; continue watching for traffic as you cross.
Never assume a driver sees you. Make eye contact with drivers as they approach to make sure you are seen.
Be visible at all times. Wear bright clothing during the day, and wear reflective materials or use a flashlight at night.
Watch for cars entering or exiting driveways, or backing up in parking lots.
Avoid alcohol and drugs when walking; they impair your abilities and your judgment.
Contact a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Today
If you have been injured or lost a loved one in a pedestrian accident, get the justice you deserve. You have a right to seek compensation for your medical expenses and other losses. The pedestrian accident lawyers of Faneuf Law Group represent accident victims throughout the country. Since 2004, we have helped residents of Massachusetts pursue personal injury and wrongful death lawsuits.
Call today for your free consultation - (617) 939-9894 or you can use this online form.
Remember, you don’t pay anything unless we win your case, so don’t hesitate to give us a call to learn more.