In an accident involving a pedestrian and a car, there is no question who will be injured more severely. Even in cases where the pedestrian mistakenly stepped into street, they are liable to be severely injured. Because of the danger cars pose to pedestrians, it is very important that both parties are aware of statistics about pedestrian accidents. Avoiding these types of accidents can keep both motorists and pedestrians safe on the road.

Rhode Island pedestrian accident lawyer

Pedestrian accidents can occur in various ways, and the severity of injuries can vary depending on the circumstances. Here are some common types of pedestrian accidents:

1. Crosswalk Accidents: Pedestrians are often hit while crossing the road at designated crosswalks. Drivers may fail to yield or be distracted, leading to collisions.
2. Intersection Accidents: Pedestrians can be hit by vehicles at intersections, especially when drivers fail to stop at traffic signals or stop signs.
3. Jaywalking Accidents: Pedestrians crossing the road outside of designated crosswalks are at a higher risk of accidents. Drivers may not expect pedestrians in such areas.
4. Backing-Up Accidents: Pedestrians can be struck by vehicles moving in reverse, especially in parking lots or driveways.
5. Right Turn Accidents: Pedestrians may be hit by vehicles making right turns at intersections, particularly if drivers fail to check for pedestrians in crosswalks.
6. Left Turn Accidents: Pedestrians can be hit by vehicles making left turns at intersections if the driver fails to yield or misjudges the pedestrian’s speed.
7. Distracted Driving Accidents: Drivers distracted by mobile phones or other distractions may not notice pedestrians, leading to accidents.
8. Speeding Accidents: Excessive speed reduces the driver’s reaction time, making it more challenging to avoid pedestrians in the roadway.
9. Drunk Driving Accidents: Impaired drivers are more likely to be involved in accidents, including those with pedestrians.
10. Poor Visibility Accidents: Lack of proper lighting, bad weather conditions, or obstructed views can contribute to accidents involving pedestrians.
11. Reckless Driving Accidents: Aggressive or reckless driving behaviors increase the risk of collisions with pedestrians.

Pedestrian safety is crucial, and both drivers and pedestrians play a role in preventing accidents. Following traffic rules, staying alert, and being cautious can contribute to reducing the incidence of pedestrian accidents. Being aware of when and where pedestrians may be present is important for avoiding an accident. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports the following statistics about pedestrian accidents:

These statistics indicate that these accidents are a real threat to people of all ages. Drivers should pay particular attention in neighborhoods and around schools during after-school hours. Also, every driver should always give the right of way to a pedestrian whether or not it is theirs to have. A pedestrian has very little defense against a car, therefore drivers must be responsible and attentive to their surroundings at all times while driving. By doing so, they may be able to prevent damaging and even life-threatening accidents from occurring.Crosswalk pedestrian accidents can occur in various ways, leading to injuries or fatalities. Some common types of crosswalk pedestrian accidents include:

1. Failure to Yield: Motorists may fail to yield the right of way to pedestrians at crosswalks, either due to distraction, lack of awareness, or disregard for traffic rules.
2. Speeding: Drivers exceeding speed limits may have difficulty stopping in time to avoid a pedestrian crossing the road. Higher speeds also increase the severity of injuries in case of a collision.
3. Distracted Driving or Walking: Both drivers and pedestrians can contribute to accidents by being distracted. For example, a driver using a phone or a pedestrian looking at their phone may not notice each other in time.
4. Red Light Violations: Motorists running red lights at intersections where pedestrians have the right of way can lead to collisions.
5. Impaired Driving or Walking: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs impairs a driver’s ability to react quickly, increasing the risk of accidents with pedestrians.
6. Poor Visibility: Insufficient lighting or obstructed views can contribute to accidents, especially during nighttime or adverse weather conditions.
7. Aggressive Driving: Aggressive behaviors such as tailgating, weaving through traffic, or not respecting crosswalks can put pedestrians at risk.
8. Crosswalk Design Issues: Poorly designed or marked crosswalks may confuse both drivers and pedestrians, leading to accidents.
9. Jaywalking: Pedestrians crossing the road outside designated crosswalks or against traffic signals may be at a higher risk of being struck by vehicles.
10. Left or Right Turns: Drivers making left or right turns at intersections may not always notice pedestrians crossing the road, leading to collisions.

It’s important for both drivers and pedestrians to follow traffic rules, exercise caution, and remain vigilant to reduce the risk of crosswalk pedestrian accidents. Additionally, infrastructure improvements and public awareness campaigns can contribute to overall pedestrian safety.

Professional Responsibility: The Rhode Island Supreme Court licenses all lawyers and attorneys in the general practice of law, but does not license or certify any lawyer / attorney as an expert or specialist in any field of practice. While this firm maintains joint responsibility, most cases of this type are referred to other attorneys for principle responsibility.