Pedestrian Accidents

A pedestrian is defined by the National Highway Safety Traffic Administration (NHSTA) as “Any person on foot, walking, running, jogging, hiking, sitting or lying down who is involved in a motor vehicle traffic crash.” NHSTA reported the following statistics from 2009:

• 2009 pedestrian deaths: 4,092
• 2009 pedestrian injuries in traffic crashes: 59,000 estimated
• Pedestrian fatalities account for approximately 12% of total fatalities
• Alcohol was involved in 48% of all traffic crashes resulting in pedestrian death, in either the pedestrian or the driver.

Drivers who were negligent may be held accountable for their conduct in a personal injury action brought by the injured party. If the pedestrian was killed by the negligence of another driver, the survivors of the deceased may seek compensation in a wrongful death claim.

If you have been or a loved one have been injured in a pedestrian accident call Clay now! Our lawyers can help. We provide an initial consultation FREE of charge to you regardless of whether you retain our services.

All drivers have the responsibility to drive safely under all circumstances. Pedestrians are the most vulnerable of all accident victims because they are completely unprotected from the massive damage that can be caused by a moving 3000 lb. car or 20,000 lb. truck. Common pedestrian accident causes include:

• Driver distraction
• Texting
• Talking on cellphone
• Eating, drinking
• Talking to passengers
• Grooming, looking in mirror
• Fiddling with CD player, radio, other
• Failure to stop or slow down at a crosswalk
• Failure to stop at a traffic light or stop sign
• Speeding
• Driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol