It’s no secret that cities and towns have become less walkable, meaning those looking to travel generally must rely on cars to travel. Unfortunately, because many suburbs and cities are becoming more car-centric, collisions involving pedestrians have increased over recent years. As such, if you have been involved in an incident with a vehicle, it’s imperative to understand your legal options in these matters. The following blog explores these injuries in further detail, including the importance of discussing your circumstances with a San Angelo, Texas pedestrian accident lawyer.
How Do Pedestrian Injuries Occur?
Like most auto collisions, there are a number of factors that can lead to a car striking a pedestrian. These include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Distracted driving
- Failure to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks
- Failure to yield when pedestrians have the right of way at intersections
- Speeding
- Reckless driving
- Making illegal turns
- Failure to adhere to road signs
- Drunk driving
- Drowsy driving
In most instances, the driver of the vehicle can face liability, as generally, cars must yield to pedestrians. However, there are instances in which pedestrians can face liability. For example, if a pedestrian enters a crosswalk while a vehicle is too close to safely stop, they can face liability. The same can be applied in instances of jaywalking. Additionally, if a pedestrian is intoxicated or distracted, which leads to the injury, they can be held liable for the damages.
There are steps you can take as a pedestrian to help reduce your risk of injury. It’s imperative to try to make yourself as visible as possible when crossing the road, including wearing bright colors or reflective materials when walking at night. Additionally, you should try to make eye contact with drivers while entering crosswalks, as this can help ensure they see you.
What Damages Are Most Common?
Injuries to pedestrians struck by vehicles can be incredibly serious. This is because, unlike a collision between two vehicles, the pedestrian will come into direct contact with the car. They have no vehicle of their own to absorb some of the blow. Additionally, pedestrians can sustain more injuries, as not only will they be struck by the vehicle, but they can also be injured when they hit the ground as well.
Unfortunately, pedestrians can sustain catastrophic injuries when involved in a collision with a vehicle, including broken bones, internal organ damage, traumatic brain injuries, paralysis, lacerations, and soft tissue damage, among other injuries.
Sustaining an injury due to the negligent actions of another person can be devastating, effectively turning your world upside down. While money may not help return your life to the way it was before the collision, it can help ease the financial burden your injuries may have caused. As such, it is imperative to connect with an experienced
