Pedestrian accidents are often among the most lethal types of motor vehicle accidents, with a significantly higher rate of injury and death than other types of accidents. Unfortunately, many of these accidents are the result of foreseeable problems that might have been prevented with adequate care. Here are seven contributing factors that can potentially lead to pedestrian accidents:
- Speeding
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- One of the most common causes of pedestrian accidents is speeding vehicles. This is due to the simple fact that speeding decreases the reaction time people have to notice pedestrians in the road, making it harder to stop in time to avoid a potential accident.
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- Driving in darkness
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- A disproportionate number of pedestrian accidents occur late at night, when the lack of light makes it harder for drivers to see pedestrians in the road. This makes it more likely they will collide with pedestrians crossing the road, or who walk along the side of the road.
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- Failing to respect the right of way
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- Pedestrians almost always have the right of way at intersections, meaning vehicles are supposed to wait for them to cross before proceeding. Some vehicles ignore the right of way, however, increasing the chances they will collide with a pedestrian.
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- Distracted driving
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- Distracted driving is often associated with texting and driving, but any activity that distracts a driver from the road is potentially dangerous. This includes things like eating, drinking, putting on makeup, programming a GPS, or changing the radio.
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- Poor maintenance
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- While drivers are supposed to ensure their vehicles are kept in good condition with regular maintenance, they are not always as diligent as they should be. This can lead them to potentially fail at a critical moment to avoid an accident, resulting in an avoidable accident.
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- Drowsy driving
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- Many pedestrian accidents are caused by drowsy drivers, people who get on the road while physically or mentally fatigued. This slows their reflexes, impairs their judgment, and can even make them fall asleep behind the wheel, leading to disaster.
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- Driving under the influence (DUI)
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- People who drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs are substantially more likely to get into an accident compared to sober drivers. This is because they lack the judgment, motor coordination, or reflexes to control their car and avoid a potential accident.
Fox Law Firm, PLLC is a New York personal injury law practice serving clients throughout Nassau and Suffolk counties. With more than three decades of law practice experience, attorney Kevin Fox has helped clients in personal injury cases obtain the compensation they deserve. For more information or to ask for a consultation, call our Riverhead office at 631-779-3400 or visit our contact page.
