A Pedestrian Accident Lawyer in Bowie MD is typically aware of the disturbing statistics in regard to accidents between automotive vehicles and pedestrians. These attorneys represent clients who have been seriously injured in these kinds of incidents. In the worst-case scenario, the attorney represents the family of a deceased person after a fatal accident. However, anyone injured in a pedestrian/vehicle accident is encouraged to get legal help as soon as possible. Attorneys with a firm such as The Valente Law Group are ready to assist. Click here for information.
Relevant Statistics
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that more than 5,000 pedestrians are killed annually after being struck by a vehicle. More than 60,000 are injured every year. Disturbingly, these numbers have been rising over the past 12 years. And, these statistics only account for the accidents reported to the police. The Administration knows that a large number are never reported even if they cause some level of injury. A review of hospital records confirms this.
Common Reasons for Car-Pedestrian Accidents
Research has identified the most common causes of these accidents will not surprise anyone. Driving while intoxicated is a major problem. Running red lights and turning right on red without checking for anyone in the crosswalk is another. Distracted drivers who are checking the cell phone or looking at a GPS will not see a pedestrian since they have their eyes off the road and the crosswalks.
Driving faster than the speed limit allows and driving too fast for conditions also cause problems. Busy streets in residential neighborhoods may commonly have vehicles speeding along at 35, 40, or 45 miles per hour although the limit may only be 25 miles per hour. One wrong move by the driver can result in disaster.
Claim Disputes
Hiring a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer in Bowie MD is especially important if the insurance company is disputing the claim for any reason. Although it may seem unlikely to think about, sometimes the person on foot was significantly at fault for what occurred. For instance, walking along a poorly lit road while wearing dark clothes at night increases the risk of being hit by a car. That risk goes up even further if the pedestrian has been drinking.
