What You Need to Know About Pedestrian Accidents
When a pedestrian is struck by a car, the injuries can be severe. As such, it is important for pedestrians to obey all pedestrian-related laws, such as walking within crosswalks and for drivers to always be on the lookout for pedestrians to avoid hitting them. Here is some information that both drivers and pedestrians should know about pedestrian accidents.
How Fault is Determined
When a car strikes a pedestrian, the laws of negligence come into play when determining fault. Negligence means that one party was doing something unlawful or that they should not have been doing. Pedestrians may be found at fault if they are jaywalking, walking in the street instead of on sidewalks, or crossing in a crosswalk when the light indicates that it is not their turn. Drivers may be found at fault if they are speeding, if they run a red light or stop sign, if they are driving while distracted, or if they hit a pedestrian who has the right of way.
Why Children and Older Adults are at Risk
Children under the age of 15 and older adults over the age of 65 are at the highest risk of being involved in a pedestrian-related accident. There are many reasons for this. First, both age groups are more likely to be out walking than other age groups, simply because they may not have access to a car. Secondly, children, in particular, are smaller and as such, they can be harder to see. Lastly, both age groups may not always be aware of their surroundings, which can put them in danger and leave them more susceptible to being struck by a car when outside for a walk.
What to Do if You’ve Been Hit
If you have been hit by a car, it is essential that you contact the police immediately so that you can file a police report. This is the best way to document all of the facts and determine who was at fault. It is also important to obtain the names and phone numbers of any witnesses who may have been on the scene. This information can be important if the fault is disputed down the road. After all of this, be sure to seek medical treatment. You may have internal injuries that you are not aware of. Lastly, consult with a personal injury lawyer.
If you have been injured in a pedestrian versus car accident, an attorney can help you determine what your rights are and whether you can file a personal injury lawsuit. Here at Peach Tree Injury Law, we want to help you with all of your personal injury needs. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.
