The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the way we live in many ways, and one surprising development has been the increase in pedestrian accident injuries. With fewer cars on the road during the early months of the pandemic, many people assumed that walking and biking would be safer. However, as more people turned to these activities, and drivers took advantage of empty roads to speed, pedestrian accidents actually increased. This blog explores the reasons behind this trend and what you can do to stay safe.
The Rise in Pedestrian Accident Injuries
During the pandemic, cities saw a sharp rise in pedestrian activity. With gyms closed and public transportation considered risky, walking and cycling became popular ways to stay active and get around. But this increase in pedestrian activity, combined with several other factors, led to a spike in pedestrian accident injuries.
- Speeding on Empty Roads: With less traffic, many drivers began speeding, which significantly increased the severity of accidents when they did happen. Speeding reduces a driver’s reaction time and increases the force of impact, making pedestrian accidents much more likely to result in serious injuries or death.
- Distracted Driving: The pandemic also saw an increase in distracted driving. With more people working from home and using their phones for navigatino or entertainment, drivers became less attentive, putting pedestrians at greater risk. Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of accidents, as it only takes a moment of inattention to cause a collision.
- Changes in Traffic Patterns: The reduction in overall traffic led to unpredictable changes in traffic patterns. Drivers might not have been used to seeing so many pedestrians or cyclists on the roads, leading to dangerous situations. Additionally, temporary closures and detours created by the pandemic response could have led to confusion, further increasing the risk of accidents.
- Increased Pedestrian Activity: With more people walking and cycling, the chances of accidents occuring has increased. Sidewalks became more crowded, and pedestrians sometimes had to share the road with vehicles, especially in areas where sidewalks were narrow or nonexistent.
The Impact of Pedestrian Accident Injuries
Pedestrian accident injuries can be severe, leading to long-term physical and emotional trauma. Common injuries include:
- Fractures and Broken Bones: These are common in pedestrian accidents, especially when a vehicle hits the pedestrian directly. Fractures can range from minor breaks that heal in a few weeks to severe breaks that require surgery and long-term rehabilitation.
- Head Injuries: Head injuries are particularly dangerous because they can lead to brain damage, which can have lasting effects on a person’s cognitive and physical abilities. Even a mild concussion can result in significant symptoms that interfere with daily life.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: These injuries can be life-altering, potentially resulting in paralysis or other severe physical limitations. Recovery from spinal cord injuries often requires extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.
- Psychological Trauma: The emotional impact of being involved in a pedestrian accident can be just as significant as the physical injuries. Victims may experience anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which can require therapy and support to overcome.
Given the serious nature of these injuries, it’s important for victims to seek legal assistance to make they receive the compensation they need to cover medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.
The Role of a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident, it’s crucial to seek legal help. A pedestrian accident lawyer is adept in these types of cases and can help you navigate the legal system to make sure you get the compensation you deserve. Here’s why working with a pedestrian accident lawyer is essential:
- Determining Liability: Pedestrian accidents often involve multiple parties, including drivers, city planners, and even other pedestrians. A lawyer can help determine who is at fault and hold them accountable. This is especially important when dealing with complex cases where liability might not be immediately clear.
- Gathering Evidence: A pedestrian accident lawyer will gather evidence to support your case, including witness statements, police reports, and any available video footage. This evidence is crucial in proving your case and ensuring that you receive fair compensation.
- Negotiating with Insurance Companies: Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, offering settlements that don’t fully cover the victim’s expenses. A lawyer can negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf to make sure you receive a fair settlement that covers all your costs.
- Representing You in Court: If your case goes to court, a pedestrian accident lawyer will represent you, presenting your case to the judge or jury. Having experienced legal representation is crucial in achieving a favorable outcome.
Tips for Staying Safe as a Pedestrian
While pedestrian accident injuries have increased, there are steps you can take to protect yourself when walking or cycling:
- Obey Traffic Signals: Always follow traffic lights and pedestrian signals, even if the roads look empty. Drivers may not always be paying attention, so it’s important to be extra cautious when crossing streets.
- Stay Alert: Avoid distractions like using your phone or listening to music with headphones while crossing the street. Being aware of your surroundings is key to staying safe.
- Wear Bright or Reflective Clothing: Especially when walking at night or in low-light conditions, wearing bright or reflective clothing makes you more visible to drivers. This simple step can significantly reduce your risk of being hit.
- Walk on Sidewalks: Always use sidewalks when they are available. If you must walk on the road, walk facing traffic so you can see oncoming vehicles and take action if necessary.
- Cross at Designated Crosswalks: Whenever possible, cross streets at designated crosswalks. Drivers are more likely to expect pedestrians at these locations, making them safer places to cross.
How Cities and Communities Can Help
Cities and communities play a crucial role in keeping pedestrians safe. Here are some steps that can be taken to reduce pedestrian accidents:
- Improving Infrastructure: Cities can make streets safer for pedestrians by improving crosswalks, adding better lighting, and installing pedestrian signals at busy intersections.
- Implementing Traffic Calming Measures: Speed bumps, raised crosswalks, and narrower streets can help slow down traffic, reducing the risk of accidents.
- Launching Public Awareness Campaigns: Educating drivers and pedestrians about the dangers of distracted driving and the importance of following traffic laws can help prevent accidents.
Conclusion
The spike in pedestrian accident injuries during the COVID era is a concerning trend that requires attention from both individuals and communities. If you or someone you know has been injured in a pedestrian accident, working with a pedestrian accident lawyer is essential to ensuring your rights are protected and that you receive the compensation you need to recover. Clayton Trial Lawyers is dedicated to helping victims of pedestrian accidents navigate the legal process and secure the best possible outcome. Contact us today for a free consultation and learn more about how we can assist you.