Pedestrian Accident Prevention and Legal Advice

Pedestrians are at high risk for catastrophic physical bodily harm if they are hit by an aubomotible. This is because the weight and size of a vehicle far surpass that of the human body, and when in motion, the force that a car has can be immense should it hit a person. Given that the average weight of a private automobile is 3,000 to 4,000 pounds while the average body is only 150 pounds, there is a substantial difference in weight. This is why it is imperative that drivers are always attentive to their surroundings when they operate a motor vehicle so that they can steer clear of hitting a pedestrian.

Still, it is not only a driver that has a duty to behave responsibly. Pedestrians must also mitigate the chances of being in an accident. The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation says that safety is everyone’s responsibility. Drivers should respect and abide by the laws just as pedestrians should engage in safe practices when out and about.

Staying Safe as a Pedestrian in Pennsylvania and Understanding the Law

Pedestrians have both rights and duties. These are detailed in the Pennsylvania vehicle code. Pedestrians should adhere to the following guidelines:

• Pedestrians should cross the street in a designated crosswalk and when they do, drivers must yield to them once they step into the crosswalk.
• Pedestrians should not unexpectedly dart out to or run into the road. It is essential to look both ways, left and right before entering into a roadway.
• Drivers may not pass a vehicle that has stopped to allow a pedestrian in a crosswalk to enter into the roadway.
• When there is no crosswalk, then a pedestrian must yield to the vehicles on the road to cross.
• When there is a signal in an intersection pedestrians and motorists must obey the traffic control devices.
• Use sidewalks when they are present, not the roadway which is unlawful.

Even though there are rules to follow and drivers are expected to be vigilant while operating their motor vehicle, sometimes drivers behave negligently. When a driver is not watchful for pedestrians or is driving recklessly they can hit a pedestrian and cause substantial physical bodily harm or death to that pedestrian. This is why it is advantageous for pedestrians to be aware of and follow these safety tips.

• Don’t enter the roadway between cars or without constantly looking both ways for vehicles.
• When entering into a crosswalk, make sure to look at oncoming drivers and make eye contact.
• Always watch for and obey traffic signals and signs.
• Be attentive to your surroundings. Stay off your phone and avoid distractions.
• Wear brightly colored clothing or reflective clothing when visibility is diminished like at night and in the dark.
• If you must walk on the road, walk against traffic.

Speak with an Attorney at Edelstein Martin & Nelson, LLP

Drivers should always be on the lookout for pedestrians and when driving near them do so with caution. Pedestrians must also be proactive with their safety to avoid being harmed in an accident. Pedestrians who are hit by a negligent driver, though, may be able to file a claim for compensation against that driver.

For more information, call Edelstein Martin & Nelson, LLP today to schedule a free consultation with a Philadelphia pedestrian accident attorney at (215) 731-9900.