Where Do Most Pedestrian Accidents Occur?

According to the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA), most pedestrian accident fatalities occurred “on local roads, at night, and away from intersections” in 2019. This means you and your family may be at risk while walking in your own neighborhood.

Pedestrian Fatalities are Increasing

According to the GHSA, pedestrian fatalities are on the rise. It reports that in 2019, there were over 6,500 pedestrians killed on U.S. roads, with a large proportion of these accidents happening on our local streets. Additionally, they note some troubling recent trends in pedestrian accident statistics.

While pedestrian deaths have been rising overall, there has been a sharp rise in nighttime pedestrian fatalities.

Causes of Pedestrian Accidents

Here are some of the potential contributing factors to pedestrian accidents that end up fatal or with serious injuries.

• Speeding: When traveling above the speed limit, drivers may have difficulty slowing down or stopping to avoid a pedestrian.
• Driving under the influence: Drugs and alcohol make it more difficult for drivers to see and respond to pedestrians that come into their field of vision.
• Distracted driving: Drivers who are texting, calling, using their GPS or radio, or otherwise distracted may not see a pedestrian until it is too late.
• Drowsy driving: Studies have shown that fatigue can affect the body similarly to alcohol—dulling senses and reflexes. Fatigued drivers may not notice or respond in time to a pedestrian.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), you can practice safe walking habits to lower your chances of being involved in a pedestrian accident. Try to keep to the sidewalks, stay alert, wear visible clothing, and use crosswalks.

Common Pedestrian Accident Injuries

Pedestrian accident injuries are often severe and can include:

• TBIs
• Internal injuries
• Chest and abdominal injuries
• Broken or fractured bones
• Spinal cord injuries
• Cuts and lacerations
• Fatal injuries

Survivors of pedestrian accidents may also suffer from emotional injuries, such as anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder. Regardless of the types of injuries you suffered, our team wants to help you recover compensation and recover as fully as possible.

How to Protect Yourself If You Have Been Injured In an Accident

If you get hurt in a pedestrian accident, here are some steps to take to begin protecting your health and your rights from the moment you are injured.

Get Treated for Your Injuries

Make sure that your first priority is your health and safety. Before taking any of the following steps, have a medical professional treat your injuries. They can document your injuries, noting the severity and type of injuries you have suffered. This can be useful later if you decide to pursue compensation through a lawsuit.

Also, be sure to follow your doctor’s orders until you have reached maximum medical improvement. If you skip appointments or disobey your doctor’s orders, the insurance company may claim you are exaggerating or contributing to your injuries.

Keep Track of Any Evidence

While our team will handle the evidence gathering process on your behalf, if you have any photos, documents, or receipts, please keep them safe and organized in a folder. This can help us establish negligence and determine the severity of your injuries.

Avoid Speaking About the Accident

It is easy to say something innocuous that could jeopardize your right to compensation. Avoid speaking about your accident to friends and family, and especially to the insurance company. You should also avoid posting about it on social media. The insurance company can use anything you post against you.

Remember Your Time to Act is Short

You have a limited time to act. If you fail to file a lawsuit in time, you may be unable to recover compensation. A lawyer from our firm can help you understand any deadlines and work to ensure you meet them.

Pedestrian Accidents Can Lead to Damages

When pedestrian accidents occur, they often lead to severe or even fatal injuries. If you or a loved one was injured in a pedestrian accident, you may be entitled to any of the following:

• Pain and suffering
• Mental anguish
• Medical bills
• Lost wages
• Lost earning capacity
• Miscellaneous expenses

If you lost a loved one due to a pedestrian accident, you may be entitled to other damages. Our team can help you determine the value of your case.

Our Team Can Help You After a Pedestrian Accident

If you or someone you love has been seriously injured or lost due to a pedestrian traffic accident, then you may be entitled to compensation to help cover your injuries and other losses. A pedestrian accident lawyer in New Hyde Park will fight for your rights, helping you recover the money you need after a negligent driver leaves you hurt. If you or someone you love has been injured in a pedestrian accident, contact the Law Office of Cohen & Jaffe, LLP for help today at (516) 358-6900.

For a free legal consultation, call 516-358-6900