As experienced personal injury attorneys at Ruhmann Law Firm, we have helped many victims of pedestrian accidents seek the compensation they deserve. Pedestrian accidents can result in severe injuries that dramatically impact a person’s life. But what causes these accidents? In this post, we will explore the most frequent scenarios in Albuquerque that lead to pedestrians being struck by vehicles.
Driver Inattention and Distraction
One of the leading causes of pedestrian accidents is driver inattention. When motorists fail to keep their eyes on the road, hands on the wheel, and attention on the task of driving, they put pedestrians at serious risk. Common distractions include:
- Texting or using a cellphone
- Adjusting vehicle controls like the radio or GPS
- Conversing with passengers
- Eating or drinking
- Applying makeup or grooming
Distracted drivers are less likely to see pedestrians entering crosswalks or walking along the roadside. They also have slower reaction times to avoid a collision. Ruhmann Law Firm strongly advises drivers to minimize distractions and stay vigilant, especially in areas with foot traffic.
Failure to Yield Right-of-Way
By law, pedestrians have the right-of-way in marked crosswalks and at intersections. However, many pedestrian accidents occur because drivers fail to yield as required. Examples include:
- Not stopping at stop signs or red lights before turning
- Making a right turn on red without coming to a complete stop
- Rushing to beat a yellow light when a pedestrian has already entered the crosswalk
- Passing another vehicle that has stopped for a pedestrian
Drivers must respect the right-of-way of pedestrians and err on the side of caution at crossings. Failure to do so is not only illegal but endangers lives.
Low Visibility Conditions
Pedestrian accidents frequently occur in low-light conditions such as dawn, dusk, and nighttime. Drivers have more difficulty seeing pedestrians when natural light is limited. Pedestrians can help prevent these collisions by:
- Wearing bright, reflective clothing to increase their visibility
- Carrying a flashlight when walking at night
- Staying in well-lit areas whenever possible
- Making eye contact with drivers before crossing
While pedestrians can take these precautions, drivers still have a duty to exercise increased care when driving in the dark. Using high beams, reducing speed, and scanning the road vigilantly can help drivers spot pedestrians.
Impaired and Reckless Driving
Sadly, many innocent pedestrians fall victim to impaired and reckless drivers. Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol severely diminishes reaction time, judgment, and control, making it more likely a driver will hit a pedestrian. Reckless behaviors like speeding and aggressive driving also increase the risk. Impaired and reckless drivers often fail to look out for pedestrians, drive too fast to stop in time, or swerve onto sidewalks and shoulders.
Contact Us Today
If a pedestrian accident has impacted your life, Ruhmann Law Firm is here to help. While taking legal action cannot undo the trauma of being struck by a vehicle, it can provide vital resources for recovery and hold negligent drivers accountable. Contact Ruhmann Law Firm today for a free consultation about your pedestrian accident case.
Related Links:
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- Driver Negligence a Valid Basis for a Pedestrian Accident Claim