During October, the U.S. Department of Transportation and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) celebrate National Pedestrian Safety Month, bringing attention to the critical need for safer streets for all who use them. The statistics paint a sobering picture. In 2022 alone, 7,522 pedestrians were killed, and an estimated 67,336 were injured in traffic crashes across the United States. Pedestrian deaths accounted for 18 percent of all traffic fatalities that year, while 3 percent of all people injured in traffic crashes were pedestrians. These numbers highlight the risks for pedestrians who share the roads with motor vehicles.
The high number of pedestrian fatalities and injuries is not just a statistic; it represents real people whose lives have been turned upside down by accidents. Whether it’s a serious injury or the heartbreaking loss of a loved one, the consequences of pedestrian accidents are far-reaching, affecting victims and families physically, emotionally, and financially.
For anyone impacted by a pedestrian accident, understanding your rights and seeking help from a pedestrian injury lawyer can make a huge difference in your recovery. If you or a loved one was injured in a pedestrian accident, contact a local pedestrian injury attorney for a free consultation.
The Increase in Pedestrian Fatalities
According to Russ Martin, the senior director of policy and government relations at the Governors Highway Safety Association, pedestrian deaths have been climbing since 2010 because of unsafe infrastructure and the prevalence of SUVs, which are more deadly for pedestrians than smaller cars.
Urban areas, where foot traffic and vehicles share crowded spaces, are particularly dangerous. Poor visibility, speeding, distracted driving, and even defective traffic signals contribute to the daily risks pedestrians face. Additionally, distracted walking—people looking at their phones or listening to music while crossing streets—is an ongoing problem, leading to an increase in accidents.
Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrian accidents can happen in a variety of ways. Some of the most common causes include:
- Distracted driving. Drivers texting, talking on the phone, or otherwise distracted are less likely to see pedestrians in time to stop.
- Speeding. Drivers going too fast through intersections or crosswalks have less time to react to pedestrians.
- Failure to yield. Many pedestrian accidents happen when drivers fail to yield the right of way at crosswalks, intersections, or when turning.
- Drunk or impaired driving. Drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs are more likely to strike a pedestrian.
- Poor visibility. Weather conditions, nighttime driving, and pedestrians wearing dark clothing can make it harder for drivers to see people walking near the road.
Regardless of the cause, a pedestrian accident lawyer can help determine liability and ensure that the responsible party is held accountable.
How a Pedestrian Injury Lawyer Can Help
In the aftermath of a pedestrian accident, victims often face medical bills, lost wages, and emotional trauma. When a vehicle is involved – especially a large one like a truck or SUV – the resulting injuries can be severe, including broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, and spinal cord damage. In these cases, holding the at-fault party accountable and securing compensation is key to recovery. This is where a pedestrian injury lawyer comes in.
A lawyer specializing in pedestrian injury cases understands the complexities of these incidents. They can help you navigate the often-confusing legal process, ensuring that your rights are protected and that you receive fair compensation for your injuries.
Protect Yourself and Your Rights
National Pedestrian Safety Month is a reminder that, despite efforts to improve road safety, pedestrians remain vulnerable. The alarming statistics from 2022 highlight the importance of taking extra precautions when walking near traffic.
There is a limited time in which you are legally allowed to file an injury claim. Consult with a pedestrian injury lawyer today if you were injured as a pedestrian to ensure you receive the justice and support you deserve.
Seek the Help of a Pedestrian Injury Lawyer
If you or a loved one was injured because of the negligence of another, contact a personal injury lawyer to discuss your legal rights. Let an experienced pedestrian injury attorney fight for the full compensation that you deserve. It is not uncommon to receive a settlement from the insurance company that is five to ten times larger with the help of a lawyer. Call the personal injury lawyers at Tario & Associates, P.S. in Bellingham, WA today for a FREE consultation! We have been representing residents of Whatcom County, Skagit County, Island County and Snohomish County since 1979. You will pay nothing up front and no attorney fees at all unless we recover damages for you!
