At our law firm in Paducah, Kentucky, we fight for just compensation for victims of pedestrian accidents throughout McCracken County and surrounding areas. People who are injured when struck by vehicles driven by negligent, reckless or aggressive drivers are entitled to compensation from involved insurance companies and the at-fault drivers.
We also represent the surviving loved ones of those who lose their lives in pedestrian crashes in wrongful death lawsuits.
By the numbers
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention or CDC, vehicle-pedestrian crashes contribute to a pedestrian fatality a shocking every 1.5 hours on average, using 2016 data. At greater risk is pedestrians who are seniors or kids and pedestrian crashes are more likely in urban neighborhoods, away from intersections and after dark.
Alcohol and excessive speed raise the risk of pedestrian accidents
If both walkers and drivers abstained from drinking alcohol before hitting the road (or sidewalk), it would increase pedestrian safety greatly. The CDC says that almost half of fatal pedestrian accidents involve alcohol having been consumed by either the driver or walker.
Speeding increases the risk of striking a walker and raises the risk of more severe injuries.
Safety tips for pedestrians and drivers
Safety suggestions for pedestrians:
- At night, wear light or reflective clothing and use a flashlight.
- Crossroads in marked crosswalks or at least at intersections, whenever possible.
- Walk on a sidewalk or walking path if available, otherwise, the CDC advises walking on the shoulder facing oncoming traffic.
- Do not walk outside after consuming alcohol or using drugs, including sedating medications.
- Obey traffic rules. For example, observe stop lights and signs and cross within the crosswalk.
- Be alert for vehicles that may be backing out onto the road or turning into a driveway in front of you.
- Do not text or read anything on an electronic device while walking. Do not wear headphones that might block the sound of traffic or of a warning horn or shout.
Drivers should do their part. After all, they are in control of heavy, metal moving cars, SUVs, vans, trucks, and buses against which pedestrians are no match. Examples of tips for drivers:
- Do not drink or use drugs and drive.
- Follow traffic laws, especially speed restrictions and intersection rules.
- Be aware of pedestrian movement at the side of the road, especially where there are no sidewalks and people must walk on the shoulder as well as at night and in poor weather.
- Keep your vehicle well maintained, especially your brakes.
- Be especially careful around schools and parks and when backing up.
It is our hope that the numbers of pedestrian accidents continue to decline, but in the meantime, we will continue to support and fight for our clients injured in pedestrian-vehicle collisions.