Instances Where a Pedestrian is At-Fault for Car Accidents

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Pedestrian accidents can cause serious injuries to the victim. Sadly, pedestrians are not protected by metal coverings like car drivers. So they will experience severe injuries that can significantly affect their quality of life.

Pedestrian accident lawyers serve as a beacon of hope for victims. They guide victims through the pedestrian accident claim process and get them the compensation they deserve.

When an accident happens, people usually assume that it is the fault of the car driver. However, pedestrians are responsible for some accidents.

In this blog post, we are going to discuss some instances where a pedestrian is at fault in a car accident.

Pedestrian Negligence That Can Lead to Accidents

Here are some ways in which pedestrians can act negligently and cause a car crash:

• Unexpectedly enter the road
• Not following traffic signs and signals 
• Distracted walking
• Walking under the influence of alcohol or drugs
• Jaywalking

Unexpectedly Enter the Road

Let’s say a mom is walking with her toddler. The toddler wanders off and runs into the traffic. Now, if a car hits the toddler, it is really not the fault of the driver, as the driver didn’t expect anyone running between the roads. The mom should be held responsible for the accident.

Not Following Traffic Signs and Signals 

Not only motorists, but pedestrians also must follow all the traffic rules. Failing to obey the traffic rules is a common reason for pedestrian accidents.

Pedestrians should follow the traffic signs while crossing the road and at all other times. This could help to avoid the accident.

Distractions

Distraction is one of the main causes of pedestrian accidents. A pedestrian who is distracted by using their headphones, smartphones, or any other devices is likely to get into an accident. 

It is important to observe the surroundings. By doing so, pedestrians can avoid car accidents.

Walking Under the Influence of Alcohol or Drugs

Drunk pedestrians are a risk to themselves and others on the road. When a person is drunk, their reaction time will significantly decrease. Also, their vision will be impaired.

Due to this, they won’t be able to react to sudden traffic movements. They may enter the road unintentionally. Car drivers don’t expect these behaviors from pedestrians. So accidents may happen.

In such situations, the pedestrian will be held liable for the accident, as the car driver did not breach the duty of care they owed.

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Jaywalking

Pedestrians should cross the road only in areas designated for it. Crosswalks are there for a reason. Pedestrians should use it to cross the road. Car drivers don’t expect people to cross the road at random places. So the driver won’t be able to stop the car at the right time.

Avoid crossing the road in areas where no crosswalks are available. If a car hits you in such a situation, you won’t even be able to file a claim, as you will be the at-fault party for the accident.

Final Thoughts

Pedestrians can claim the following losses if the accident was caused by someone else’s negligence:

• Present and future medical expenses
• Present and future losses of earning
• Property damage
• Pain and suffering
• Loss of quality of life

Claiming compensation for the above mentioned losses is possible only if you were not the reason for the accident. This is why it is important to obey the traffic rules.

Remember that the claim process is quite complex, which is why you need to hire a lawyer. A lawyer can help you understand the options available to you. They can help in calculating the losses, negotiating with the insurance company, and obtaining fair compensation. Trust them to get the compensation you deserve.