Pedestrian Accident

Over 5,000 pedestrians are killed every year in motor vehicle collisions in the United States. Tens of thousands more are injured. Pedestrian accidents represent two percent of traffic injuries and deaths annually. Pedestrian accidents can also occur as a result of non-vehicular incidents. Although there has been a statistical drop in pedestrian fatalities in recent years, pedestrian safety remains a problem.

If you or a loved one has suffered injury or death in a pedestrian accident, it may be in your best interest to consult with a qualified Dallas attorney; you may be entitled to receive compensation for your loss or suffering.

Some common causes of pedestrian accidents are listed below:

• Pedestrian is struck by an oncoming vehicle after walking/running into a roadway
• Motorist is unable to stop in time to see the pedestrian
• Motorist runs a red light at an intersection.
• Pedestrian is struck while exiting a parked vehicle.
• Pedestrian is struck by a car due to a blind spot (or moving in reverse or turning a corner)

Other less common pedestrian accidents include fallen cargo or construction materials, dangerous pavement or environmental hazards. Overall, the most common cause of pedestrian accidents is negligence, usually on the part of a driver. 

Some of the common factors involved in pedestrian accidents include:

• Area type – Pedestrian accidents occur more frequently in populated areas.
• Location type – Most pedestrian accidents occur at non-intersections.
• Speeding – Excessive speed is a contributing factor in approximately 30 percent of all pedestrian accidents.
• Alcohol Impairment – Alcohol is involved in nearly one-third of all pedestrian accidents.

Some of the potentially liable parties in an accident could be the motorist who strikes the pedestrian, the party responsible for maintaining the area where the accident happened, the auto manufacturer, or the pedestrian. Even if you were partially at fault for the accident, you may be able to seek compensatory damages for your losses and suffering.  

Some important things you can do to protect yourself in the even of an accident:

• File a police report.
• Do not to leave the scene of the accident unless medically necessary.
• Gather as much information as possible, including the names and contact information of all witnesses and parties involved.
• You may wish to take photos of the scene and/or any injuries sustained.
• Before discussing the incident with an at-fault driver or an insurance company, you should contact a qualified attorney experienced in pedestrian accidents.