Understanding the Surge in Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrian accidents have been increasing at an alarming rate across the United States. According to the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA), pedestrian fatalities rose by 48% from 2014 to 2024, significantly outpacing overall traffic fatalities. In the first half of 2024 alone, 3,304 pedestrians were killed in traffic accidents.
The primary reasons for this rise in pedestrian deaths include:
- Increase in larger vehicles (SUVs and trucks), which cause more severe injuries
- Distracted driving due to mobile phone use
- Lack of pedestrian-friendly infrastructure, such as sidewalks, crosswalks, and street lighting
- Reduction in traffic enforcement, allowing reckless driving behaviors to persist
- More dangerous road designs that prioritize vehicle speed over pedestrian safety
If you or a loved one has been involved in a pedestrian accident, understanding your legal rights and seeking expert legal representation is crucial.
Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrian accidents can happen anywhere, but they are most common in urban areas, near intersections, and at night. Some of the leading causes include:
1. Distracted Driving
Drivers using smartphones, GPS, or other in-car entertainment systems often fail to notice pedestrians, leading to collisions.
2. Speeding
High-speed crashes are far more likely to result in severe or fatal injuries to pedestrians.
3. Failure to Yield at Crosswalks
Many pedestrian accidents occur when drivers fail to stop for pedestrians legally crossing at crosswalks.
4. Impaired Driving
Drunk or drug-impaired drivers have slower reaction times and poor judgment, increasing the likelihood of hitting a pedestrian.
5. Poor Road Infrastructure
Many pedestrian fatalities occur due to lack of sidewalks, poorly marked crosswalks, inadequate lighting, and unsafe road designs.
What to Do After a Pedestrian Accident
If you or a loved one has been involved in a pedestrian accident, taking the right steps can make a significant difference in building a strong case.
- Seek Medical Attention – Even if injuries seem minor, some symptoms may develop later.
- Call the Police – A police report serves as key evidence.
- Gather Evidence – Take photos of the accident scene, driver’s vehicle, your injuries, and any relevant road signs or traffic signals.
- Get Witness Statements – Witnesses can provide valuable testimony to support your claim.
- Do Not Speak to Insurance Adjusters Without Legal Counsel – Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts.
- Consult a Pedestrian Accident Attorney – A skilled attorney can help navigate the legal process and ensure maximum compensation.
How a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Can Help
1. Investigating Your Case
An experienced pedestrian accident lawyer will thoroughly investigate the accident by obtaining police reports, medical records, and witness statements to establish fault.
2. Determining Liability
To secure compensation, we must prove that another party’s negligence caused the accident. Liable parties may include:
- A reckless or distracted driver
- A municipality responsible for maintaining road safety
- A manufacturer of faulty traffic signals or pedestrian infrastructure
3. Calculating Your Compensation
Pedestrian accident victims may be eligible for compensation covering:
- Medical bills (past and future expenses)
- Lost wages due to inability to work
- Pain and suffering (physical and emotional trauma)
- Rehabilitation costs for long-term injuries
- Wrongful death compensation for families who have lost a loved one
4. Negotiating with Insurance Companies
Insurance adjusters often offer low settlements to victims. A lawyer will ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries and losses.
5. Taking Your Case to Court
If negotiations fail, our legal team will be prepared to take your case to trial and fight for the maximum compensation you deserve.
Pedestrian Safety Tips for Drivers and Pedestrians
For Drivers:
- Yield to Pedestrians at Crosswalks – Ohio law requires drivers to stop for pedestrians at marked crosswalks.
- Avoid Distractions – Put away your phone and focus on the road.
- Obey Speed Limits – Reducing speed, especially in pedestrian-heavy areas, can save lives.
- Never Drive Under the Influence – Alcohol and drugs impair reaction time and judgment.
- Be Extra Cautious at Night – Most pedestrian fatalities occur after dark.
For Pedestrians:
- Use Crosswalks and Sidewalks – Always cross streets at designated crosswalks.
- Stay Visible – Wear bright or reflective clothing at night.
- Make Eye Contact with Drivers – Ensure they see you before crossing.
- Avoid Distractions – Stay alert and avoid looking at your phone while walking near traffic.
Why Choose Paulozzi LPA for Your Pedestrian Accident Case?
At Paulozzi LPA, we are committed to protecting pedestrian accident victims. Our firm offers:
- Free Consultations – We evaluate your case at no cost.
- No Upfront Fees – You pay nothing unless we win your case.
- Experienced Pedestrian Injury Lawyers – We have successfully represented victims across Ohio.
Contact Paulozzi LPA Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident, do not wait to seek legal representation. Time is limited under Ohio’s two-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims.
Get the justice and compensation you deserve. Contact Paulozzi LPA today for a free consultation and let us fight for you.
