What You Need to Know About Pedestrian Accidents
While any kind of motor vehicle accident can result in serious injuries, auto pedestrian accidents frequently involve devastating physical trauma for those on foot.
The reason is obvious. Motorists are surrounded by their vehicles, which provides a sort of cage for the human body. However, a pedestrian has no protection.
Far too often, pedestrian injuries are long-term and life-threatening. No one should be forced to bear the burden of medical bills, lost wages, and other damages caused by a motorist’s negligence.
Therefore, someone injured in a car pedestrian accident in Denver or Colorado Springs, Colorado should contact a pedestrian accident lawyer to discuss their case.
Pedestrian Accidents Are on the Rise
On the whole, motor vehicle accident fatality rates have declined over time. However, deadly pedestrian accidents have risen dramatically in recent years.
In fact, pedestrian accident deaths hit a record high two years in a row in 2016 and 2017, according to an NPR report. In 2017, almost 6,000 pedestrians were killed in motor vehicle accidents.
6 Different Types of Pedestrian Accidents
While auto pedestrian accidents can happen in a variety of ways, some types of accidents occur more often than others. Here are six kinds of pedestrian accidents to know about:
Backing Auto Accidents
Most people don’t think of parking lots as dangerous. However, pedestrians can be injured by negligent motorists who don’t look before they back out of a parking space.
Many cars have blind spots, which can make it difficult for a motorist to get a clear view of their surroundings as they back up. This puts pedestrians in danger.
When an auto pedestrian accident is caused by a driver who didn’t look before backing up, a Denver & Colorado Springs, Colorado pedestrian accident lawyer may be able to help.
Pedestrian on the Side of the Road
In areas that lack sidewalks or bicycle and walking paths, pedestrians may be forced to walk along the side of the road. If a motorist fails to see a pedestrian, a serious accident can result.
Intersection Accidents
In this type of accident, a pedestrian is struck by a vehicle while attempting to cross an intersection. This can happen because the driver is distracted, or because the motorist decided to speed through a yellow light.
Turning Accidents
Many pedestrian accidents occur as a vehicle is making a turn. In many cases, drivers look for approaching cars, but they fail to keep an eye out for people on foot. If a driver isn’t paying close attention to their surroundings, they can strike a pedestrian.
Pedestrians Darting into the Road
Just like motorists, pedestrians have a responsibility to follow traffic signs and road markings. If they choose to dash across the street without using a crosswalk, they put themselves at risk of being struck by a vehicle.
School Bus Accidents
While the school bus is the safest way for children to get to school, bus accidents still happen. Unfortunately, around 17,000 children are treated in emergency rooms each year due to school bus accidents.
The most dangerous time for a child on the school bus is when the child is either boarding or exiting the bus. Motorists have an obligation to stop when a school bus’s lights are flashing red, or when its mechanical crossing bar is down.
Auto Pedestrian Accident Lawyers in Denver & Colorado Springs, Colorado
If you have been injured in a car pedestrian accident, it’s in your best interest to contact a Denver pedestrian accident lawyer. An experienced pedestrian accident attorney can explain your rights and help you make informed decisions about your case. Contact Alhasoon, Glidden & Glidden today for a free consultation about your case.
