One of the most tragic and devastating injuries that individuals can endure is an accident that occurs when one is simply walking down the street. When a vehicle strikes a pedestrian, a walker can suffer injuries – often fatal. Fortunately, the risks that you will be involved in a pedestrian injury accident are low, being involved in one can be devastating. Those who are struck as a pedestrian will often have the rest of their lives impacted if they survive the accident.
To ensure that you receive the compensation that you deserve when you are struck by a vehicle while walking, it is essential that you work with a trained and experienced personal attorney in St. Petersburg. At Reeder & Nussbaum, our team of personal injury attorneys has years of experience helping victims win their case against negligent drivers.
The best way to avoid being involved in a pedestrian accident is to remain aware of your surroundings and remain vigilant. Compiled by our team and resources from the National Safety Council, here is the top guidance to help pedestrians avoid becoming victims of pedestrian accidents.
- Always utilize sidewalks when available. Most sidewalks are well-lit and marked, which drastically reduces your chances of being involved in a pedestrian accident unless a driver leaves the road and drives onto a sidewalk.
- If the sidewalk is not available, it is essential that you remain as far away from the road as possible. If a shoulder is available, stay there and walk toward traffic until a safe sidewalk is available once more.
- Walk facing traffic. While it may seem counterintuitive to walk toward traffic, having the ability to see oncoming traffic will increase your chances to avoid an impact should the unthinkable occur.
- Always avoid jaywalking. Anytime there is a crosswalk available – even when it is further down the road or in the opposite direction you are heading – make sure to walk across the road there. Like sidewalks, crosswalks are often will-defined and lit, which makes it easier for vehicles to avoid pedestrians even under difficult driving conditions.
- If you must cross a street without a crosswalk available, always ensure that you stop and look both ways before stepping into the road. Avoid cross at a hill, as oncoming cars can often come upon you faster than you expect.
- Unfortunately, you cannot always expect drivers to drive safely and avoid pedestrians who are cross the street. Anytime you cross the road, make sure that you take stock of any vehicles on the road and attempt to make eye contact or wave to the driver to ensure that they know you are on the road.
- Walking at night? If possible, utilize a flashlight and wear clothing that is bright or reflective.
- Streets are not the only place where pedestrian accidents occur. Personal injury accidents can also happen in parking lots, alleys, and driveways. In many personal injury accident situations, drivers were backing up or out of driveways and hit walkers without realizing they were there. Avoid blindspots!
- While it should be common sense, many individuals who are walking while under the influence of drugs or alcohol may find themselves unaware of their surroundings. The same goes for wearing headphones, earbuds, or using a smartphone while walking.
If you or someone you love has been involved in a pedestrian accident, time is of the essence to ensure that you receive the compensation necessary. As the leading personal injury law firm in the St. Petersburg region, the team at Reeder & Nussbaum will work hard to ensure you win your case.
When you are injured in a pedestrian accident, you need a partner who will work hard for you from beginning to end. Contact Reeder & Nussbaum today to learn more about our full personal injury law services.