How Many Pedestrian Accidents Happen at DC Crosswalks?

How Often Do Crosswalk Pedestrian Accidents Occur?

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), nearly 8,000 pedestrians were killed in a motor vehicle accident in 2021. That equals one in six people who died in a car crash in 2021 was a pedestrian. In addition, an estimated 104,000 pedestrians visited emergency rooms in 2021 to be treated for injuries after a car accident.

Although the NHTSA stresses that staying in the crosswalk can protect pedestrians, this is not always true. Just recently, a woman walking in a crosswalk in Washington, DC, was hit by an Amazon van turning left at the light. This case highlights that pedestrians face many dangers on the roadways.

What Causes Pedestrian Accidents in Washington, DC?

The common causes of pedestrian accidents in Washington, DC, include driver behavior, such as distracted driving or speeding, visibility issues, crosswalk design, and pedestrian behavior.

One of the primary factors contributing to crosswalk pedestrian accidents is driver behavior. Distracted driving, speeding, and failure to yield are common causes of such accidents. According to the NHTSA, in 2019, 9 percent of pedestrian deaths were attributed to drivers who failed to yield the right of way.

Pedestrians themselves can also contribute to accidents by not using crosswalks properly or engaging in risky behaviors such as jaywalking, entering the crosswalk against traffic signals, or using electronic devices while crossing.

Limited visibility due to poor lighting, weather conditions, or obstructions can make it difficult for drivers to see pedestrians on crosswalks. The NHTSA reports that 76 percent of pedestrian fatalities in 2019 occurred during dark conditions.

Inadequate or poorly designed crosswalks can also contribute to pedestrian accidents. Factors such as insufficient crossing time, poorly placed or faded crosswalk markings, and a lack of pedestrian signals can increase the risk of accidents.

Other Common Pedestrian Accidents

While crosswalks are often considered the most vulnerable locations for pedestrian accidents, several other types of accidents can occur outside of these designated safe zones. These incidents can have serious consequences for pedestrians, resulting in severe injuries or even fatalities.

• Pedestrians may be struck while standing on a sidewalk, median, or traffic island when drivers make turns, fail to yield, or lose control of their vehicles.
• Pedestrians may be struck by vehicles backing out of parking spaces or drivers failing to notice them while navigating the parking lot.
• Backing-up accidents typically occur when drivers reverse their vehicles without noticing pedestrians behind them, often in driveways or parking spaces.
• Although sidewalks are designed to separate pedestrians from traffic, accidents can still occur if a driver loses control of their vehicle and veers onto the sidewalk.
• Off-road pedestrian accidents can occur in locations such as parks, hiking trails, or other recreational areas where vehicles and pedestrians share the same space.
• Mid-block accidents happen when pedestrians attempt to cross the street away from designated crosswalks or intersections, putting them at greater risk of being struck by a vehicle.

What Should I Do in the Event of a Crosswalk Pedestrian Accident?

If you are involved in a crosswalk pedestrian accident, you need to call 911, gather information, seek medical help, and contact a pedestrian accident lawyer to begin the claims process.

Assess the Situation and Call for Help

Immediately after the accident, assess the condition of the injured pedestrian, yourself, and any passengers. If the pedestrian is injured, call 911 to request medical assistance and report the accident to the police. Do not attempt to move the injured person unless they are in immediate danger, as doing so may exacerbate their injuries.

 Secure the Scene

If possible, move your vehicle to a safe location nearby without leaving the scene of the accident. Turn on your hazard lights and use cones or flares to alert other drivers to the accident site. If your vehicle cannot be moved, ensure that it is visible to approaching traffic.

 Gather Information

Exchange information with the injured pedestrian or any witnesses present, including names, contact details, and insurance information. Document the scene by taking photos of the accident site, the vehicle, and any visible injuries sustained by the pedestrian. Note the location, time of day, weather conditions, and any relevant traffic signals or signs.

Obtain a Police Report

Cooperate with the responding officers and provide them with an accurate account of the accident. Request a copy of the police report, as it will serve as a crucial piece of evidence for insurance claims and potential legal proceedings.

Seek Medical Attention

Even if you do not feel injured, it’s essential to seek medical attention after an accident. Some injuries may not manifest immediately and could develop over time. A medical evaluation will also help document any potential injuries resulting from the accident.

 Notify Your Insurance Company

Inform your insurance company of the accident as soon as possible. Provide them with the details of the incident, including the fact that it involved a pedestrian in a crosswalk. Your insurance company will guide you through the claims process and may need to coordinate with the pedestrian’s insurance provider.

Consult an Attorney

Crosswalk pedestrian accidents can result in complex legal situations, mainly if disputes over liability or significant injuries are involved. It’s advisable to consult with a Washington, DC pedestrian accident attorney experienced in handling pedestrian accidents to receive guidance on your legal rights, potential liability, and any necessary steps to protect yourself.

Knowing what to do in the event of a crosswalk pedestrian accident is essential for ensuring the safety and well-being of everyone involved, as well as adequately addressing legal and insurance matters. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can effectively navigate the aftermath of a crosswalk pedestrian accident and work towards a fair resolution. It’s important to remember that consulting with an experienced attorney can provide invaluable support and guidance during this challenging process.

What Can Pedestrians Do to Protect Themselves?

• Improved crosswalk design: Enhancing crosswalk visibility through better signage, markings, and lighting can help reduce the risk of accidents. Installing pedestrian refuge islands, curb extensions, and raised crosswalks can also provide additional safety measures.
• Traffic calming measures: Implementing traffic calming measures such as speed humps, roundabouts, and lower speed limits in areas with high pedestrian traffic can help decrease the likelihood of accidents.
• Education and enforcement: Increasing public awareness about pedestrian safety and crosswalk laws, along with stricter enforcement of traffic regulations, can encourage both drivers and pedestrians to exercise greater caution in crosswalks.
• Technological advancements: Innovations such as pedestrian detection systems in vehicles and smart traffic signals can help reduce the frequency of crosswalk accidents.

Crosswalk pedestrian accidents remain a pressing public safety concern. By examining the available statistics and understanding the contributing factors, we can work towards implementing effective solutions to enhance pedestrian safety. Improving crosswalk infrastructure, promoting safe driving and walking behaviors, and leveraging technology can all play a role in reducing the number of crosswalk accidents and creating safer streets for everyone.

If you were involved in a pedestrian accident in Washington, DC, Regan Zambri Long can help. Contact our DC pedestrian accident attorney today to schedule a free consultation.