Understanding Pedestrian Accidents: Key Facts and Prevention

By Haley Crim

As a driver, you should always be concerned about the potential of a pedestrian accident. Some of the main causes of pedestrian accidents include pedestrian jaywalking, limited visibility on the driver’s part, and more. To avoid these types of collisions, reduce your distractions and always be aware of your surroundings.

All it takes is a glance at your phone screen or simply moving your head in the opposite direction. Suddenly, a person appears in the middle of the street, but you are unable to stop quickly enough.

Pedestrian accidents are sadly common in the United States. The CDC reports that over 8,000 pedestrians died in vehicle accidents in 2022, highlighting a major problem that shows no signs of slowing down. 

What Is the Meaning of a Pedestrian Accident? 

A pedestrian accident refers to any type of collision that involves a motor vehicle and an individual who is on foot (a pedestrian). Pedestrian accidents are much more dangerous than vehicle-to-vehicle collisions, because unlike drivers, pedestrians do not have the protection of a car.

As a result, a single hit can lead to serious or even fatal injuries. 

What Is the Punishment for Hitting a Pedestrian? 

The consequences for hitting a pedestrian depend on who is at fault in the accident, as well as the severity of the injuries. If the pedestrian accident is your first offense and there aren’t any serious injuries, you will likely have to pay a traffic fine.

Victim compensation is also common in these cases for expenses such as: 

• Medical bills
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering 

However, you could face severe consequences if you were under the influence or engaging in distracted driving when the accident occurred. A judge may determine that a traffic fine isn’t harsh enough and might sentence you to probation or jail time as punishment. 

Causes of Pedestrian Accidents

What exactly causes pedestrian accidents? Here are some of the main reasons why they occur, even when everyone involved tries to be careful. 

Jaywalking 

Jaywalking involves pedestrians crossing the street in areas that aren’t designated crosswalks. Therefore, cars do not have an obligation to stop and often don’t see pedestrians until it is too late. 

Distracted Driving

Looking down at your phone to respond to a quick text might not seem like a big deal in the moment. However, all it takes is a split second to hit a pedestrian. 

Driving Under the Influence 

Even if your blood alcohol level is under the legal limit, you can still be considered intoxicated or driving under the influence. Substances such as marijuana or prescription medications can cause similar issues.

Alcohol in particular slows reaction times, and when you are about to hit someone in the road, milliseconds are precious.

Poor Visibility

Weather events, such as storms and fog, can create incredibly dangerous driving conditions. They lead to limited visibility, making it even more difficult to spot pedestrians.

Failure to Yield 

In most cases, drivers must yield to pedestrians. Failure to yield when the pedestrian believes that they have the right of way could lead to a major collision.

A good rule of thumb is to yield wherever an intersection exists, even if there isn’t any direct signage. 

Unsafe Road Design

When roads aren’t updated, they cannot just wreak havoc on your car but can also be deadly. Features such as blind turns make it harder to spot pedestrians as you drive around sharp corners. 

Accident Prevention Strategies

How can you prevent pedestrian accidents from happening? Here are some failsafe tips to drive safely and responsibly around those on foot. 

Always Be Aware of Your Surroundings 

Constantly scan your surroundings. Drivers have a tendency to go into “autopilot” mode when driving familiar routes, such as to and from work.

Keep your head on a swivel and look for any pedestrians in the road or on nearby sidewalks. 

When In Doubt, Yield to Pedestrians 

Although pedestrians don’t always have the right of way, it is best to yield to them to avoid issues. Slow down or stop if you see a pedestrian crossing illegally or struggling to get out of the road, and it is safe to do so.

Reduce Distractions 

Put your phone in “Do Not Disturb” mode and wait to respond to notifications until you arrive at your destination. Use features like voice-to-text so you do not have to move your hands from the steering wheel or constantly look at your phone. 

Frequently Asked Questions

In What Area Are Pedestrian Accidents the Most Common? 

While pedestrian accidents can happen anywhere, they are most common in dense city streets and downtown neighborhoods. The higher rate of accidents in urban areas is due to factors such as: 

• High foot traffic 
• Closer vehicles 
• Smaller roads
• Tricky parking situations 
• More vehicles

The National Safety Council points out that a staggering 83% of pedestrian accidents occur in urban settings.

What Is the Typical Payout for a Pedestrian Accident? 

The payout for a pedestrian accident depends on the features of the case, such as:

• The accident location
• The types of injuries sustained
• Whether the pedestrian had the right of way.

Find a good law firm, such as the Jordan Law Center, to help you navigate the legal process.

Am I Always at Fault if I Hit a Pedestrian?

No. There are many cases where the driver isn’t at fault for hitting a pedestrian.

Pedestrian negligence is a common cause of accidents. When a pedestrian walks into the street while distracted or intoxicated, the driver doesn’t always have enough time to stop safely. 

Even in places with right-of-way laws, pedestrians still need to understand where they have the right of way.

Pedestrian safety tips include:

• Look both ways before crossing the street
• Don’t walk after drinking or using harmful substances
• Always be aware of your surroundings 
• Know where you have the right of way

Avoid a Pedestrian Accident

A pedestrian accident could cause serious injuries and a legal mess for both the pedestrian and the driver. Use this guide to know the consequences of a pedestrian accident and understand how you can prevent one from occurring. 

Would you like to learn more about safe driving tips? Explore our website today for the latest updates.