Whether you are out for a walk on a sunny day, waiting to cross at an intersection, or going to get the mail, pedestrian accidents can happen anywhere. It is important for pedestrians and drivers to understand how to coexist safely to prevent disaster.
If you are involved in an accident, it is crucial to have an attorney on your side who knows the ins and outs of pedestrian accident laws. At The Fitch Law Firm, our attorneys have over 30 years of experience helping people recover compensation after a life-changing incident. If you or a loved one needs legal representation, let our compassionate lawyers evaluate your case and determine how we can help.
Ohio Pedestrian Accident Statistics
Between 2019 and 2024, there were 13,834 pedestrian traffic accidents in Ohio, 857 of which were fatal, according to Ohio’s State Highway Patrol. Too many lives are ended or permanently altered because of pedestrian accidents, making it crucial to understand their main causes and how to stay safe.
Between 2017 and 2022, one in three fatal crashes involving pedestrians occurred either on a Friday or Saturday, with almost half of them occurring between 6:00pm-12:00am (State Highway Patrol). It is always important to be aware of your surroundings, however, heightened awareness during critical moments could be lifesaving, for yourself and others.
In 2023, Ohio reported 150 pedestrian fatalities, emphasizing the urgent need for accessible legal support for victims and their families following these tragic events (Ohio DOT).
If you or a loved one has been involved in a pedestrian accident, an experienced attorney can help navigate the legal complexities of your case, ensuring that you receive the compensation and support you deserve during this challenging time.
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Causes of Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrian accidents are a major concern, but understanding the causes of these accidents can help improve safety for everyone on the road. Below is a list of several major factors that commonly cause pedestrian accidents:
- Distracted Driving
- Speeding
- Failing to Yield
- Poor Visibility
- Impaired/Drunk Driving
- Jaywalking
Whether it is being mindful of distractions, improving visibility, or reducing speed, both drivers and pedestrians play a crucial role in avoiding accidents. Staying aware and following the rules of the road can help protect pedestrians and reduce the risk of accidents.
Common Locations for Pedestrian Accidents
It is important to know the common locations of pedestrian accidents to be on high alert, either as the driver or pedestrian.
- Intersections
Intersections are high-traffic areas that are frequent locations for pedestrian accidents. If the intersections do not have a crosswalk or if a driver is not paying attention and fails to yield, lives are put at risk.
- Parking Lots
Parking lots contain both vehicle and foot traffic, increasing the likelihood of a pedestrian accident. Drivers in parking lots are commonly distracted, looking for a spot to park or glancing at their phone for directions, which puts pedestrians at risk of being hit.
- Roadsides and Shoulders
Pedestrians are less frequent on roadsides and shoulders because of the lack of walkways; however, they can still be there. Drivers are less likely to expect a pedestrian to be walking on the roadside, and in combination with increased speeds, pedestrians are at high risk of being struck.
- Residential Areas
Residential areas have a lot of foot traffic, including places like neighborhoods, schools, or parks. With more foot traffic comes an increased risk of pedestrian-vehicle collisions.
Effects of Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrian accidents can result in a wide range of physical injuries, varying in severity depending on the incident’s circumstances. These injuries often have immediate and long-term impacts on a person’s health, mobility, and quality of life. Below is a list of common injuries experienced by pedestrians involved in accidents:
- Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
- Amputations
- Herniated discs, sciatic pain, and nerve injuries
- Neck/Shoulder injuries
- Back and spinal cord injuries
- Broken limb injuries
- Internal organ damage
These injuries, and others caused by pedestrian accidents, can create life-long health complications that permanently impact the ability to function.
A serious pedestrian accident can lead to:
- Permanent injury/disability
- Inability to work resulting in lost wages
- Increasing medical bills
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Safety Tips for Pedestrians
Pedestrians play an important role in their own safety, especially when sharing the road with vehicles. While drivers have a responsibility to remain alert, pedestrians can also take important steps to reduce the risk of accidents.
The following tips can help pedestrians stay safe while navigating Ohio’s roads and intersections.
- Use Designated Crosswalks and Intersections
Always cross streets at marked crosswalks or intersections where drivers expect to see pedestrians. Avoid crossing mid-block, especially on busy roads.
- Obey Traffic Signals and Signs
Wait for walk signals and follow pedestrian traffic signs. Crossing against the signal, even if no cars appear to be coming, increases your risk of being hit.
- Stay Alert and Avoid Distractions
Keep your eyes up and your phone down. Avoid texting, talking on the phone, or wearing headphones while walking near traffic.
- Make Eye Contact with Drivers
Before crossing, try to make eye contact with drivers to confirm they see you. Never assume a driver will stop just because you have the right of way.
- Wear Bright or Reflective Clothing at Night
Visibility drops significantly after dark. Wear light-colored or reflective clothing and consider carrying a flashlight to help drivers see you.
- Walk on Sidewalks When Available
Use sidewalks whenever possible. If there isn’t a sidewalk, walk on the side of the road facing traffic and stay as far to the left as you can to be aware of approaching vehicles.
Safety Tips for Drivers
With thousands of incidents occurring each year, pedestrian accidents remain a significant concern in Ohio. Drivers play a crucial role in preventing these accidents by sticking to safety guidelines designed to protect pedestrians.
By staying vigilant and following safety practices, drivers can make the roads safer for everyone. Below are essential safety tips for drivers to help prevent pedestrian accidents:
- Avoid Distracted Driving
Distractions like texting, eating, or adjusting the GPS take your focus off the road, often for crucial seconds. Staying attentive helps you spot pedestrians early.
- Yield to Anyone Walking at Marked Crosswalks or Intersections
Ohio law requires drivers to yield the right-of-way to pedestrians in marked crosswalks and intersections. Failing to do so can not only cause serious injuries but also result in legal liability for the driver.
- Don’t Pass a Vehicle Stopped at a Crosswalk
If a vehicle is stopped at a crosswalk, it is often because a pedestrian is crossing. Passing that vehicle is both extremely dangerous and illegal. It puts the pedestrian at risk and could lead to a collision and serious injuries.
- Slow Down
Speeding limits the time you have to react to a pedestrian unexpectedly entering the road. Slower speeds give you a better chance to stop safely, especially in neighborhoods, school zones, and highly populated areas.
- Stop for School Buses with Flashing Lights
All traffic must stop when a school bus displays flashing red lights and extends its stop sign. Children may be crossing the street, and it’s crucial to follow this rule to prevent tragic accidents.
- Be Extra Careful at Night
Limited visibility makes it difficult to see pedestrians after dark. Use your headlights properly, stay alert, and drive at reduced speeds in poorly lit areas to help ensure pedestrian safety.
Don’t Settle: Contact The Fitch Law Firm Today
When it comes to pedestrian accidents, we understand the true value of your case and will not settle for less than you deserve. Although, it’s not just about compensation; it’s about holding the responsible party accountable for their actions.
At The Fitch Law Firm, we’re committed to fighting for your rights, ensuring you get the compensation you deserve, and making sure those who caused harm are held liable. Don’t settle for less – we give your case the attention it deserves to achieve the best possible outcome.
Contact us at (614) 412-8377 or on our website. We are available 24/7 to discuss the details of your case, and once you contact us, we will promptly begin evaluating all available options to assist you.
