Among the most vulnerable people on roadways are pedestrians. This is due to the fact that they do not have protection or defense when they are involved in a vehicular collision. Motorists look out for other vehicles to prevent accidents, but they sometimes forget to watch out for people on foot.
Some motorists drive either carelessly or recklessly, and their inattention can lead to devastating consequences. Most pedestrian accidents could have been prevented if drivers were paying enough attention while behind the wheel. Among the more common causes of pedestrian accidents are drivers failing to yield and stop at intersections, distracted driving, driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, disregarding traffic rules, and simply not looking out for people crossing the street.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Association (NHTSA) reports that accidents involving pedestrians cause nearly 5,000 deaths annually with approximately 78,000 people injured. Those accidents are either due to the drivers’ fault or some faults of pedestrians. Under the law, motorists are expected to exercise reasonable care to prevent anyone from being hurt on roadways. However, traffic accidents do happen and when they do, liability issues can arise.
Drivers who cause pedestrian accidents can be held liable for the damages caused by their inattention to driving. Distracted driving can be due to texting or talking on a cell phone, eating, talking to a passenger while driving, or any activity that caused them to take their eyes off the road. Speeding, reckless driving, and cutting corners are also some of factors that may lead to accidents. During bad weather conditions, drivers are expected to adjust their speed, because if they don’t, they may not be able to quickly slow down their vehicle to avoid crossing pedestrians from being injured.
Of course, there are certain circumstances in which pedestrians are to be blamed for pedestrian accidents. Under the law, even those on foot must follow the road rules and regulations. Generally, traffic signals govern intersections. If pedestrians jaywalk, then accidents can occur and pedestrians can be blamed for the accidents. If they dart off of a sidewalk into the path of an approaching vehicle, they can be held liable for the accident. Whatever the case, pedestrians injured in road accidents should seek the legal help of an experienced pedestrian accident attorney after seeking treatment for their injuries. A strong, compassionate legal advocate will be able to help protect the pedestrians’ rights.
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If you or a loved one suffered serious injuries or death in a NJ pedestrian accident due to motorists’ negligence, you may contact The Grossman Law Firm today at (732) 943-0383 for a free consultation. We represent our clients on a contingency fee basis. Our fees are based on a percentage of the recovery from settlement or verdict of your case.
