Every week, newspapers and newscasts across the country report on pedestrians who are injured and killed as a result of being struck by a vehicle. In rural and urban areas, on suburban streets, and even highways, lives are changed in an instant. Though the percentage of pedestrian fatalities and injuries is down from those ten years earlier, the numbers are still in the thousands.

2006 Statistics (from the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration)

• 42,642 pedestrians injured
  
• 4,748 pedestrians killed
  
• Every nine minutes, a pedestrian is injured in a traffic accident
  
• Every 110 minutes, a pedestrian is killed in a traffic accident
  

The NHTSA statistics also show that a majority of pedestrian fatalities (74%) occurred in urban areas; 79% at non-intersect areas; 90% in normal weather conditions; and 69% at night.

While there are many occasions in which the pedestrians are at fault, drivers are taught to be especially careful when people who are walking or riding bikes are around. However, pedestrians must be aware of traffic around them, and act safely.

Safety Reminders

• Drivers must yield right-of-way to pedestrians crossing the street in marked or unmarked crosswalks. Drivers must be extra cautious when turning at intersections, and where yielding right-of-way usually occurs.
  

  
   

  Pedestrians:
  

• Walk on the sidewalk whenever possible. If you must walk in the street, walk facing traffic.
  
• Cross at designated crosswalks and look both ways before crossing.
  
• Increase visibility at night by carrying a flashlight or wearing retro-reflective clothing, which will highlight body movement.
  

Auto/pedestrian accidents happen for a variety of reasons, and at a variety of locations and times of day. However, determining the level of driver negligence also determines who might be at fault.

Driver Negligence

• Driver fails to pay attention
  
• Driver is speeding
  
• Driver fails to stop at crosswalks and give pedestrians right-of-way
  
• Driver has been drinking alcohol or taking drugs
  

And those pedestrians harmed by a vehicle can suffer a number of debilitating injuries, such as broken bones, brain or back injuries, and mental distress – as well being killed.

If you, or a loved one, has been struck by a vehicle and injured through driver negligence, please contact an experienced injury lawyer
in your area.