Did you know that the greatest number of pedestrians are injured by motor vehicles on Saturdays and at night?
The use of portable technology has increased the risk of an injury accident for both motorists and pedestrians. Motorists who are talking on the phone, reading e-mail and texting are less aware of their environments. Something as simple as a beep from the cell phone indicating there is a message waiting can take attention from the road as the driver glances down.
Pedestrians are also distracted by their devices, wandering through crosswalks or standing on the curb focused on the handheld while drivers aren’t sure what direction they’ll move, or if they will step into traffic without looking.
Responsibility on Both Sides
Both drivers and pedestrians need to be responsible when traveling around their communities; however, motorists bear the greater burden of responsibility since distracted driving can result in significant injury and the death of the pedestrian. If a driver was distracted by a mobile device during an accident, they are more likely to be held liable for the injury.
When pedestrians, bicyclists and motorists share the road, eye contact is critical. If you are stepping into the crosswalk and you see a motorist looking down or talking on the phone beware. Pedestrians also need to pay attention and not cause drivers to become confused or concerned about their movements.
Help For Your Injuries
If you were taking a walk, running or going for a bike ride and struck by a driver, the law offices if Greg Vigna M.D., J.D. can evaluate your case and determine if you qualify for compensation for your injuries. Contact us today to speak with an attorney and medical professional who understands what you are going through. Life Care Planning is an essential element of your recovery.
CDC (2014) Pedestrian Safety: Fact Sheet. Retrieved from http://www.cdc.gov/Motorvehiclesafety/Pedestrian_Safety/factsheet.html
NHTSA (2014) Everyone is a pedestrian. Retrieved from http://www.nhtsa.gov/Pedestrians
U.S. Department of Transportation (2003) A Review of Pedestrian Safety Research in the United States and Abroad. Retrieved from: http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/publications/research/safety/pedbike/03042/part2.cfm
