According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), nearly 6,000 pedestrians were killed in traffic-related incidents in 2017. Pedestrian accidents occur in a multitude of locations, including in crosswalks. Crosswalk accidents are often caused by drivers running red lights, drivers failing to yield to pedestrians, or faulty traffic lights. Therefore, both drivers and pedestrians should stay informed on crosswalk safety precautions. When an accident occurs, pedestrians are encouraged to contact an attorney to explore legal options.
Safety Tips for Pedestrians
Pedestrians have a responsibility to safely cross the road by using crosswalks. Jaywalking puts pedestrians at risk for an accident that they might share liability for. Therefore, utilizing crosswalks is important. However, it is equally important for pedestrians to stay cautious of their surroundings while in a crosswalk. Pedestrians should look both ways before walking across the street. This rule may seem obvious, however, this is often forgotten by most pedestrians. Reckless or negligent drivers might accidentally run a red light, injuring pedestrians.
Pedestrians should try to avoid listening to music or texting while walking. When individuals are on their phone, they are typically distracted. Being distracted puts a pedestrian at a higher risk for an accident. Therefore, staying alert is a crucial tip.
Safety Tips for Drivers
Drivers have an important duty to be alert of pedestrians. When driving around crosswalks, drivers should scan the area and check for pedestrians before turning right on a red light, backing out of their driveway, or driving past a stop sign. Similarly, drivers should reduce their speed in areas with pedestrians, especially areas that include children.
How to Collect Damages
The victim in a pedestrian accident is encouraged to contact a pedestrian accident lawyer to discuss recovering damages. Victims can collect damages for several reasons, including reckless or negligent driving. Negligent driving behaviors include:
- Texting while driving
- Drunk driving
- Drugged driving
- Running yield signs, stop signs, or stop lights
- Speeding
- Tailgating
- Failing to practice caution in extreme weather
These are a few examples of driver negligence; however, a driver is considered negligent anytime they fail to take a proper duty of care while driving. The victim’s lawyer must prove that the driver participated in negligent behavior while driving. Similarly, they must prove that the negligent behavior directly led to the accident.
In some cases, victims might be able to file a claim against the municipality of the place they were hit. The municipality is responsible for maintaining safe streets and traffic devices. If unsafe conditions played a role in the accident, victims might be able to collect damages.
Atlantic City Pedestrian Accident Lawyers at the D’Amato Law Firm Advocate for Injured Pedestrians
If you were the victim of a pedestrian accident, please consider contacting an Atlantic City pedestrian accident lawyer at the D’Amato Law Firm. Our lawyers work closely with clients to obtain maximum compensation. If you are interested in speaking to one of our lawyers, contact us online or call us at 609-926-3300 for a free consultation. With an office located in Egg Harbor Township, New Jersey, we proudly serve clients throughout South Jersey, including Atlantic City, Linwood, Galloway Township, Cape May, Vineland, Millville, Bridgeton, Ocean City, and Woodbury.