Pedestrian accidents in New Jersey can be devastating for the pedestrian whose human body is at a disadvantage against the car’s metal mass.
While pedestrian misjudgment can lead to an accident, the main cause of these accidents is often the driver’s fault. Distracted driving, carelessly backing up, driving under the influence (DUI), speeding, negligence, and poor visibility can cause serious pedestrian accidents.
This article outlines the causes of pedestrian accidents, the most common injuries, and how a New Jersey personal injury can assist victims.
Causes of Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrians crossing behind stationary vehicles without checking that the road is clear can walk right into an accident. Distracted pedestrians may also expose themselves to being hit. However, pedestrian accidents are often the driver’s fault in New Jersey.
Distracted Driving
Despite knowing the consequences of distracted driving, many drivers still text at the wheel while others take their eyes off the road for too long.
Speeding
Exceeding the posted speed is a traffic offense and can result in severe injuries. Speeding drivers have limited reaction time. Fast cars hitting pedestrians at high speeds increases the severity of their injuries.
Driver Negligence
Some drivers attempt to excuse their negligence on pedestrian error. Such drivers will neither brake nor swerve to avoid hitting someone, claiming they were in the wrong. But pedestrians’ erred judgment is not a reason to hurt them.
Even when pedestrians are distracted, the driver cannot negligently hit them and claim it is their fault. They must do everything reasonably possible to prevent the accident. According to New Jersey law, drivers should yield to pedestrians on marked and unmarked crosswalks.
Poor Visibility
The weather may affect how far a driver can see. They may need to be extra vigilant and reduce speed to allow for emergencies.
Intoxicated Driving (DUI)
Drunk drivers are notorious for sluggish reflexes and often make poor judgments that result in accidents.
Backing Out of Driveways and Parking Lots Without Checking for Pedestrians
Drivers should check their mirrors and give adequate warning before backing up to avoid hitting pedestrians.
No driver should get away with this avoidable negligence if they hurt someone. A New Jersey personal injury lawyer helps victims file a claim to pay for their losses.
Common Injuries in Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrian accidents can cause minor to severe injuries. The pedestrian typically suffers more damage than the driver.
Some common pedestrian injuries include the following:
- Soft tissue injuries: Although these may sound minor, the pain they cause can be unbearable.
- Internal bleeding: This can happen due to organ damage.
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI): The impact of a car hitting a pedestrian can cause brain injuries.
- Spinal cord injuries: These are life-threatening and can lead to paralysis.
- Broken bones/fractures: Fractures take time to heal. Some may cause permanent disability.
- Deep tissue lacerations: These injuries may be hard to treat, painful, and cause deformation.
- Death: Unfortunately, too many pedestrians die in these accidents.
Victims or families of the deceased have a right to compensation. They should file a civil claim with the insurance company. They can file a lawsuit if they do not reach a fair settlement. If you need to learn how to proceed, find a pedestrian accident attorney in New Jersey for guidance.
Contact a New Jersey Personal Injury Lawyer
Let a lawyer take charge of the claim process while you recover.
Consulting a New Jersey personal injury lawyer is free. Neither do you pay attorney fees unless you win. So, there is no reason to hesitate.
A New Jersey personal injury lawyer knows the technicalities of recovering damages when cars hit pedestrians. Contact our experienced lawyers for a free consultation.