In California, the roads can be treacherous, especially for pedestrians. When a pedestrian is hit by an automobile, they are vulnerable to a litany of serious injuries that can change their lives forever. If it is severe enough, it can result in a fatality. Understanding the potential risks for pedestrians could mitigate them and possibly avoid being hit.
Dangers pedestrians should think about
There are inherent dangers for pedestrians. Many have seemingly been in place since automobiles first took to the road. That includes drivers who are speeding, driving under the influence, ignore traffic laws and do not pay attention when they are backing up. A problem that has grown significantly is distracted driving. The temptation to use a cellphone to call, text, surf the web, check email or use social media is too much for many to ignore. This puts others on the road in jeopardy – especially pedestrians.
The statistics for pedestrian accidents have gotten worse in recent years. In the decade from 2009 to 2018, California had almost 7,500 pedestrian fatalities. In the state, there is a statistical trend in which the rate of fatal auto-pedestrian accidents is 25% higher than the national average. Although pedestrians can do their part by being visible, using crosswalks and being vigilant, these accidents can occur without warning forcing dramatic changes to the victim’s life.
Addressing the aftermath of pedestrian accidents
Pedestrian accidents can spark brain injuries, spinal cord damage, broken bones and more. This can lead to hospitalizations, surgical procedures, rehabilitation, the need for long-term care and problems returning to the life they led before the crash. Considering a legal claim to cover for what was lost may be a wise alternative. Having professional assistance could be beneficial to gathering evidence and moving forward with a case.
