If you suffered injuries in a pedestrian accident, it may be in your best interest to speak to a pedestrian accident lawyer in Arlington, TX. Whether you got hurt crossing the street or in a parking lot, you may have mounting bills and must take time off work. A lawyer can help you pursue the compensation you deserve.
Common Pedestrian Accident Injuries
Unlike motorists, pedestrians don’t have the protection of a vehicle during an accident. Therefore, they’re more likely to suffer serious injuries. Here are the most common injuries pedestrians can suffer during accidents:
- Broken bones: During accidents, pedestrians are in danger of breaking bones in their hands, arms, legs and back. Broken bones are frequently accompanied by severe pain, swelling and difficulty using the limb. In most cases, broken bones can be treated with a cast or splint. However, if the break is severe, surgery may be required.
- Traumatic brain injuries: Traumatic brain injuries are one of the most severe injuries pedestrians can endure during an accident and may occur if there is a forceful blow to the head. Those who suffer these injuries may experience a loss of consciousness, vomiting, headaches, dizziness, trouble speaking and other serious symptoms. Treatment for these injuries may include rest, surgery and rehabilitation.
- Soft tissue injuries: Soft tissue injuries may include cuts, lacerations, strains, sprains and dislocations. While these injuries may not be life-threatening, they’re nothing to make light of. As a pedestrian accident lawyer in Arlington, TX can confirm, these injuries can lead to severe pain, infection and even permanent scars.
- Spinal cord injuries: Pedestrians are also at risk of suffering spinal cord injuries during accidents with motor vehicles. These injuries often require long-term rehabilitation and may even result in paralysis.
- Amputations: In some pedestrian accidents, there is a lot of force involved. This may results in the amputation of limbs and extremities.
Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrian accidents can occur for a variety of different reasons, including crosswalk collisions. Many pedestrians are hit by cars making left-hand turns because the driver didn’t see them or was distracted by something else. These types of accidents also frequently occur in parking lots when drivers back out and don’t look out for pedestrians behind them.
If you were hurt in a pedestrian accident, you should schedule a consultation with a pedestrian accident lawyer in Arlington, TX to discuss your case.
How To Avoid Pedestrian Accidents And Stay Safe On The Road
Pedestrian accidents are, unfortunately, more common than they should be, but the good news is that many of them can be avoided with some simple precautions. Whether you’re walking around the neighborhood, commuting to work, or just running errands, staying alert and taking safety measures can significantly reduce your risk of being involved in an accident. If you are ever involved, however, you must reach out to a skilled Arlington, TX pedestrian accident lawyer to assist you with your case.Brandy Austin Law Firm can help.We believe in personalized solutions to your case, and will tailor our approach to your unique situation. Here are some key ways to stay safe as a pedestrian and avoid becoming part of the growing statistics.
Always Use Designated Crosswalks
It may seem obvious, but using designated crosswalks is one of the best ways to stay safe. Jaywalking, or crossing the street outside of marked areas, puts you at risk because drivers are less likely to expect someone crossing in an undesignated spot. Crosswalks are there for a reason—drivers anticipate them and are more likely to slow down. If there’s a light signal, wait for it to indicate that it’s safe to cross, and always double-check for approaching vehicles, even when the light says it’s your turn.
Stay Visible, Especially At Night
Being visible is crucial, particularly when walking at night or in low-light conditions. Wear bright-colored or reflective clothing to make sure drivers can see you. Carrying a small flashlight or using your phone’s flashlight can also help drivers spot you in darker areas. If sidewalks are not available, always walk facing traffic so you can see approaching vehicles and step out of the way if necessary.
Don’t Get Distracted By Your Phone
In today’s world, it’s easy to get caught up in checking your phone, listening to music, or even texting while walking. However, distracted walking is just as dangerous as distracted driving. When you’re not fully paying attention to your surroundings, you’re more likely to miss an oncoming car or a dangerous situation. If you need to check your phone or make a call, stop in a safe place before doing so.
Avoid Walking In Hazardous Conditions
Weather can play a significant role in pedestrian accidents. Rain, snow, and ice can make roads and sidewalks slippery, increasing the chances of falling or not being able to stop in time. If the weather is particularly bad, consider delaying your walk or taking extra precautions, such as wearing shoes with good grip and walking more slowly. Drivers may also have a harder time seeing pedestrians or stopping quickly in poor weather, so it’s important to be extra cautious during these conditions. Even if you feel that the weather may have been part of the issue, an Arlington pedestrian accident lawyer may be of assistance in evaluating your case.
Make Eye Contact With Drivers
Never assume that a driver sees you. Before stepping out into a crosswalk or crossing in front of a vehicle, try to make eye contact with the driver. This ensures they are aware of your presence and are stopping to let you pass. It’s always better to wait a few extra seconds than to risk stepping out in front of a car that might not see you.
Stay Sober While Walking
Just as driving under the influence is dangerous, walking while intoxicated can also increase your risk of being involved in an accident. Alcohol impairs your judgment, reaction time, and coordination, which can be especially risky when walking near traffic. If you’ve had too much to drink, consider getting a ride home or asking a sober friend to walk with you.
Be Extra Cautious In High-Traffic Areas
Busy intersections and roads with heavy traffic require extra caution. Even when you’re following all the rules, drivers may be distracted or unaware of pedestrians. Keep an eye out for cars making turns, running red lights, or speeding. If you’re crossing a road with multiple lanes, be sure that every lane of traffic has stopped before continuing across.
Reach Out Today
Staying safe as a pedestrian requires awareness and caution, but by following these tips, you can greatly reduce your chances of being in an accident. If you or a loved one has been involved in a pedestrian accident, it’s important to seek legal guidance from skilled Arlington, TX pedestrian accident attorneys to ensure your rights are protected. Contact us today to discuss your case and find out how we can help you get the compensation you deserve.
