When we are out walking, we often take our safety for granted. Crosswalks, sidewalks, and crossing signals allow us to protect ourselves from traffic. Despite these protective elements, there is still a risk when you are walking near a roadway. Pedestrian accidents can be devastating. If the unfortunate pedestrian accident occurs due to a driver’s fault, know that you have the right to seek compensation.
Troubling Statistics
Statistics indicate that pedestrian injuries and deaths are unfortunately very common. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 6,516 pedestrians were killed and roughly 55,000 were injured in the country in 2020. Each year, the miles Americans travel increases and so do pedestrian fatalities. Such injuries and fatalities will increase with time if this trend continues.
Who Qualifies as a Pedestrian?
When it comes to accident liability law, any victim who was not in a car at the time of a road accident is considered a pedestrian. So, you qualify as a pedestrian if you are involved in a road accident while:
- Traveling on foot
- Cleaning the windshield of your car from the outside
- Riding in a wheelchair
- Changing the tire of your vehicle
Primary Causes of Pedestrian Accidents
There are a number of different causes of pedestrian accidents. Some of the most common ones include the following:
- Speeding
- Impaired driving
- Unmarked crosswalks
- Dark lighting conditions
- Back-over accidents
- Distracted driving
- Left-hand turns
The Most Common Pedestrian Accident Injuries
When a car hits them, pedestrians are typically hit in the lower extremities first. Trauma to the muscles and ligaments, lacerations, broken bones and pelvic fractures are all common types of pedestrian injuries. The head, face, and neck of the pedestrian can strike the windshield or the hood, causing injuries like shoulder displacement, neck injuries, injuries to the vertebrae, traumatic brain injuries, concussions, and jaw and facial fractures.
The upper extremities of the pedestrian are also vulnerable, particularly if the pedestrian is tossed over a vehicle. Injuries in such cases include chest and abdominal injuries as well as hand, wrist, and arm injuries. Spinal cord injuries, internal bleeding, and internal injuries are also common for pedestrians struck by a vehicle.
Compensation for Victims
The help of an experienced pedestrian accident attorney is invaluable when it comes to determining the compensation you are due. The compensations you can expect to receive may include:
- Ongoing mental or physical therapy
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of income
- Medical bills
If the pedestrian accident resulted in a loved one’s death, you may also be entitled to obtain funeral costs as compensation.
Hilton & Somer, LLC: Virginia, Maryland & D.C. Pedestrian Accident Attorneys
If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident, you may be entitled to damages for your financial, emotional, and physical losses. An expert pedestrian accident attorney will walk you through the claim process with experience and compassion. At Hilton & Somer, LLC, we have a proven track record for winning such cases and helping our clients obtain the compensation they deserve. Use our online contact form or dial (703) 560-0700 today to arrange a free consultation.
References
https://injuryfacts.nsc.org/motor-vehicle/road-users/pedestrians/
