Pedestrian accidents are a common occurrence in America. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Association (NHTSA), over 6200 pedestrian fatalities were recorded in 2019 alone. While it may be impossible to prevent every pedestrian accident, it is possible to take measures that can help to reduce the chances of being involved in a pedestrian accident. 

This post highlights some of the things you need to know about pedestrian accidents, including what to do after a pedestrian accident and how to avoid them.

What to do if you are hit by a car as a pedestrian

After a pedestrian crash, just like in any other type of accident, seeking medical attention should be your top priority. Besides ensuring that your health is upheld, getting medical attention ensures that you have proper medical documentation critical in building your case if you intend to file a personal injury claim.

As you wait for help to arrive at the accident scene, it would be helpful to document the scene by taking pictures, video footage, and collecting witness testimonies which can also help build your case. If your injuries are severe, you may ask an onlooker to help you with documenting the accident. Additionally, ensure that you contact reliable car accident attorneys such as the May Firm to assist you in filing a personal injury claim with the at-fault driver’s insurer.

Tips to minimizing your chances of being hit by a vehicle as a pedestrian

Here are some measures you could take to minimize your chances of being in a car accident as a pedestrian.

Be cautious of speeding drivers.

One of the leading causes of pedestrian accidents is speeding drivers. As a pedestrian, it’s always a good idea to be cautious of speeding drivers when crossing the road. Never assume that the driver will see you and stop. Even when the driver could see you, vehicles moving at fast speeds are difficult to stop, increasing the chances of an accident. Therefore, never cross the road unless the vehicle has come to a complete stop.

Keep your walking or jogging to the sidewalk.

The safest place for walking or jogging is the sidewalk, and it’s important you stick to that. However, some roads may not have sidewalks or could be poorly maintained and unusable for walking or jogging. You may walk or jog on the road in such cases but ensure that you stay on the side facing oncoming traffic.

Avoid crossing the road in the dark.

Walking along or crossing the road in the dark can be dangerous because drivers may have difficulty seeing you. Whenever possible, it would be best to avoid walking or crossing the road at night. If you must walk at night, ensure that you are wearing reflective clothing or carry a flashlight. 

Always cross the road at designated places.

Whenever possible, avoid jaywalking and always cross the road at designated crosswalks or intersections. Drivers are more aware of pedestrians crossing as they approach designated crosswalks and intersections and will always reduce their speeds, significantly reducing the chances of hitting a pedestrian. Additionally, always ensure that you pay attention to the traffic lights and only cross when you have the right of way.

Be sure that the driver can see you before crossing the road.

As much as possible, establish that the driver can see you before and while you cross the road. You can do this by ensuring that, whenever possible, you make eye contact with drivers in the stopped cars to ensure they can see you before and while you cross the busy street.

Wrapping up

Careful as you are when crossing the road, accidents can still happen due to unsafe road conditions or defective crosswalk design. If you have been injured in a pedestrian accident and believe that someone is responsible for your injuries, talking to a skilled personal injury lawyer can help you understand your options.