Car Wrecks Involving Pedestrians

Every year, pedestrian-automobile accidents occur while people are crossing busy streets or highways, while children are walking to school or playing outside, and even while pedestrians are simply walking on sidewalks.  Pedestrians have nothing to protect them when they are hit by a car. The injuries are almost always serious and often fatal. The most common injuries are fractured bones and head trauma, but paralysis can also occur. The injuries are usually severe, very costly, and disabling.  All it takes to prevent car wrecks involving pedestrians is for everybody — drivers and pedestrians alike — to pay more attention.

Common Mistakes by Drivers

Pedestrian-automobile collisions are often caused by the inattentiveness of the driver of a vehicle.  Common mistakes made by drivers include:   

• Distractions in the vehicle: talking, listening to or changing music, looking at Google maps, and texting.
• Operating a vehicle under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
• Failing to read traffic signals and signs: running red lights, stop signs, and failing to yield
• Turning right on red without checking for pedestrians first.

Common Mistakes by Pedestrians

Pedestrians make mistakes, too:                                       

• Wearing head phones while walking and forgetting to keep an eye out for cars.
• Not looking for turning cars before crossing at an intersection.
• Not watching out for cars crossing sidewalks, backing out of driveways, or leaving a parking lot.
• Jaywalking or crossing streets other than at a crosswalk or intersection.
• Walking in the road, especially with your back facing the traffic.

Help Reduce Pedestrian-Automobile Accidents

Help prevent these serious wrecks by following these simple safety tips:

• Come to a complete stop at stop signs.
• Always yield to pedestrians whether they have the right of way or not.
• Never drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
• Look for pedestrians and bicyclists before turning through a crosswalk.
• Keep distractions to a minimum inside your vehicle.
• Remind your children of the importance of keeping a lookout anytime they are around cars.

We hope everyone will do their part in following these safety tips, but we know accidents will happen. If you or your child is injured in a pedestrian-automobile accident, seek medical attention immediately. If you are injured, our experienced personal injury attorneys can help you understand your rights as an accident victim and help you recover compensation for the injuries. Call 843-720-2800 for a free consultation, or visit one of our offices in Goose Creek, Summerville, or Downtown Charleston to speak to an attorney today.