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How Many Pedestrian Accidents Happen at Crosswalks?

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In the hustle and bustle of modern urban life, the risk of pedestrian accidents at crosswalks have become an all-too-common reality. As cities continue to expand and vehicular traffic increases, pedestrians face an ever-growing challenge in navigating the streets safely. While traffic safety measures and public awareness campaigns have sought to reduce the number of pedestrian accidents, these incidents continue to occur at alarming rates, often resulting in life-altering injuries or even pedestrian deaths.

Crosswalks are designed to provide pedestrians with a safe and controlled environment to navigate through busy streets. Despite the intended safety measures, a staggering number of pedestrian accidents still occur within these designated zones. The frequency of these accidents not only underscores the vulnerability of pedestrians but also raises questions about the effectiveness of existing safety measures and infrastructure.  If you have been seriously injured at a crosswalk, call our pedestrian accident lawyers for a free consultation to discuss the details of your case.

The Stats Behind Crosswalk Pedestrian Accidents

To better understand the extent of this issue and identify potential improvements, it is essential to examine the relevant statistics surrounding crosswalk pedestrian accidents.

Accident Frequency and Locations

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), recent data shows that pedestrian fatalities have increased 13 percent over the previous year. While not all of these accidents occurred in crosswalks, research indicates that a significant portion of pedestrian accidents take place in these zones. The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) found that around 60% of pedestrian collisions in urban areas occurred at intersections, where crosswalks are typically located.

Contributing Factors in Pedestrian Injuries

car driver heading to pedestrians crossing at a crosswalk

Driver 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.

Pedestrian behavior: 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.

Visibility: 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.

Crosswalk design and infrastructure: 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.

Potential Solutions

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.

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

Crosswalks are designed to provide pedestrians with a safe passage across busy streets, but accidents can still occur within these designated zones. When a crosswalk pedestrian accident occurs, it’s crucial to know the proper steps to take to ensure the safety of everyone involved and to appropriately address legal and insurance matters.

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.

 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.

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.

Consult an Attorney

Crosswalk pedestrian accidents can result in complex legal situations, particularly if there are disputes over liability or significant injuries 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 properly 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.

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. By understanding the common forms of pedestrian accidents beyond crosswalks and taking preventive measures, both pedestrians and drivers can contribute to creating safer streets for everyone.

Intersection Road Safety Accidents

Although crosswalks are often located at intersections, not all intersection accidents happen within the crosswalk. 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. These accidents can be prevented by:

Parking Lot Accidents

Parking lots can be hazardous for pedestrians due to the high concentration of vehicles, low visibility, and lack of designated pedestrian pathways. Pedestrians may be struck by vehicles backing out of parking spaces or drivers failing to notice them while navigating the parking lot. To prevent such accidents:

Backing-Up Accidents

These accidents typically occur when drivers reverse their vehicles without noticing pedestrians behind them, often in driveways or parking spaces. Preventive measures include:

Sidewalk Accidents

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. To reduce the risk of sidewalk accidents:

Off-Road Accidents

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. To prevent these accidents:

Mid-Block Accidents

These 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. To minimize the risk of mid-block accidents:

Pedestrian accidents beyond crosswalks pose significant risks for all road users. By understanding the common forms of these accidents and taking preventive measures, both pedestrians and drivers can contribute to creating a safer environment for everyone. It’s essential to remain vigilant, adhere to traffic rules, and prioritize safety while navigating shared spaces. Together, we can work towards reducing the occurrence of pedestrian accidents and fostering a more secure transportation landscape for all.

Call our top-rated pedestrian accident lawyers today.

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