Three Reasons Why Pedestrian Accidents Occur

 Posted on July 25, 2024 in Car Accidents

Pedestrian accidents are an alarming and all-too-common occurrence in today’s busy world. Despite advances in vehicle safety technology and increasing awareness of pedestrian rights, these accidents continue to happen with alarming frequency, leading to serious, potentially fatal personal injuries.

Understanding the primary causes can help communities, lawmakers, and drivers implement strategies to reduce these accidents. If you were injured in a pedestrian accident, contact a lawyer for assistance in pursuing compensation.

Speeding is a Major Factor in Pedestrian Accidents

Speeding is one of the leading causes of pedestrian accidents, and its dangers cannot be overstated. Here is why it is dangerous:

• Reduced reaction time – When a driver exceeds the speed limit, he or she has less time to react to unexpected situations, including a pedestrian stepping into the roadway.

• Greater impact force – The impact force in a collision increases substantially with speed, increasing the severity of the injuries sustained by pedestrians.

• Limited control – Speeding often compromises a driver’s ability to control his or her vehicle, making it harder to navigate obstacles or respond appropriately to pedestrian movements.

Distracted Driving is a Growing Threat

Distracted driving has become an increasingly prevalent issue with the rise of smartphones and other in-car technologies. Distractions can divert a driver’s attention away from crucial tasks such as monitoring the road, traffic signals, and pedestrian crossings. Distracted driving may be caused by:

• Cell phone use – Texting, calling, or using apps on a cell phone can take a driver’s eyes off the road for precious seconds, during which a pedestrian may step into the vehicles path.

• In-vehicle distractions – Activities like adjusting the radio, using a GPS, eating, or even talking to passengers can significantly impair a driver’s focus.

• Cognitive distraction – Even when the driver’s eyes are on the road, distractions can divert his or her mental focus, reducing the awareness of pedestrians and other critical road users.

Poor Visibility is an Often Overlooked Hazard

Poor visibility conditions, whether due to inadequate street lighting, weather conditions, or obstructions, play a significant role in pedestrian accidents. When drivers cannot see pedestrians clearly, the risk of accidents increases significantly:

• Nighttime risk – Reducing lighting at night makes it harder for drivers to spot pedestrians, especially if the pedestrian is wearing dark clothing.

• Weather conditions – Fog, rain, and snow can obscure a driver’s vision, increasing the chances of an accident.

• Obstacles and infrastructure – Parked cars, buildings, and even foliage can obstruct a driver’s line of sight, preventing them from seeing pedestrians until it is too late.

Contact Our Joliet, IL Pedestrian Accident Attorney

Pedestrian accidents are a multifaceted issue influenced by various factors. If you were injured in a pedestrian accident, contact the Kendall County, IL pedestrian accident lawyers with Schwartz Injury Law. Call 708-888-2160 for a free consultation.