Tips for Preventing Vehicle vs Pedestrian Accidents
At BCN Law Firm, we have a team of experienced attorneys who want to help pedestrians injured by inattentive drivers or other negligence. We will be by your side throughout the often-difficult recovery process, and work to get you the compensation you need and deserve.
Avoiding Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrian accidents can largely be avoided with just a little bit of extra attentiveness from both the driver and the pedestrian. Always be aware of your surroundings and take extra precautions when pedestrians are nearby, especially when children, elderly adults or those with apparent disabilities are nearby.
Leading Causes of Pedestrian Accidents
The most common reasons drivers are found to be at fault in pedestrian accidents include:
- Being under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Talking or texting and driving
- Not coming to a complete stop at stop signs or red lights
- Driving through cross-walks without using caution
- Failure to follow traffic laws
Tips for Drivers
- Stay off the phone. Beyond calling and texting, using navigation applications or even changing the song on the radio via your phone can take your attention away from the road.
- Check your mirrors thoroughly. When backing out of driveways and parking lot spaces, check both of your side mirrors multiple times to ensure your path is clear, especially in busy areas. This applies even with back-up cameras.
- Always drive at a speed that is safe for the road conditions. Rain makes roads slippery and causes cars to have less grip when stopping or cornering. In a state like Florida where rain is very common, you should give yourself more room to brake and stop when conditions are wet.
Tips for Pedestrians
- Always look both ways when crossing the street, including at intersections with traffic lights.
- Be alert when walking across the street. Look for drivers not paying attention.
- Walk with someone if you’ve been drinking.
- Wear bright or reflective clothing when walking at night.
- Always use sidewalks when available.
By keeping these tips in mind, you can reduce accidents and become a safer driver and pedestrian. Not all accidents can be avoided, and if you’ve been involved in a pedestrian accident, consult with a knowledgeable personal injury attorney like those here at BCN Law Firm in The Villages. Call us today at (352) 775-4739.