When it comes to pedestrian accidents, it’s not always just a case of “Oops, my bad” and moving on. These accidents can have serious consequences, and more often than not, the driver is held responsible.
In this article, we’ll be talking about some scenarios where drivers can be held liable for pedestrian accidents. If you find yourself in such a situation, don’t hesitate to reach out to the pedestrian accident attorneys at The Flood Law Firm.
Distracted Driving
It’s usually common to see drivers with their noses buried in their phones, barely glancing up at the road. It’s a scary sight and a common cause of pedestrian accidents.
When drivers are texting, fiddling with the GPS, or even munching on a burger, their attention is divided.
In the blink of an eye, they can fail to notice a pedestrian crossing the street. And then Bam! Accident. It goes without saying that the driver is liable in such an accident.
Speeding
Speeding isn’t just about breaking the law; it’s about putting lives at risk. When a driver zips through a neighborhood or runs a red light, the chances of hitting a pedestrian increase dramatically.
Speeding reduces reaction time and increases the severity of any potential collision. If a pedestrian is struck while the driver is speeding, it’s pretty clear who the court is going to point the finger at.
Ignoring Traffic Signals
Some drivers think they can outsmart traffic lights and stop signs. Spoiler alert: they can’t. Ignoring traffic signals is not just reckless; it’s downright dangerous.
When a driver runs a red light or rolls through a stop sign, they’re putting pedestrians at risk. If an accident occurs under these circumstances, the driver is almost always held liable.
Failing to Yield
Yielding to pedestrians, especially in crosswalks, is a basic rule of the road. But some drivers act like they own the streets.
When a driver fails to yield to a pedestrian, whether at a crosswalk or when making a turn, they are typically found liable for any resulting accidents. It’s a matter of right of way, and pedestrians have it in these situations.
Driving Under the Influence
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a big fat no-no. It impairs judgment, slows reaction times, and generally makes the driver a menace on the road.
If a driver hits a pedestrian while under the influence, there’s no question about it, the driver is liable. This kind of behavior is not only negligent but criminal.
Reckless Driving
Reckless driving covers a lot of ground, from weaving in and out of traffic to aggressive tailgating. It’s all about driving without regard for the safety of others.
When a driver’s reckless behavior leads to a pedestrian accident, the law is not on their side. Reckless drivers are held accountable for the havoc they wreak.
Not Using Headlights
Headlights aren’t just for show; they’re essential for visibility, especially at night or in poor weather.
When drivers fail to use their headlights, they make it harder for pedestrians to see them and for them to see pedestrians. If a pedestrian accident happens because the driver didn’t have their headlights on, the liability falls on the driver.
