Accidents generally are a grave concern, and when there is a pedestrian accident, it poses a major concern. This is because pedestrians’ lives become more dangerous even when they are not driving or traveling. There are various causes associated with pedestrian accidents. We must know about these causes so that we can try to avoid such causes and safeguard ourselves from accidental situations.
In this article, we will study the common causes of pedestrian accidents. If you have faced any such condition, then you can consult an expert lawyer for a pedestrian accident case. There are various expert lawyers in Des Moines, such as car accident lawyer in Des Moines and other such expert lawyers, who can help you in dealing with accident cases.
What are the Top Causes of Pedestrian Accidents?
When there is a pedestrian accident, it can harm the victim to a greater extent, and in such cases, the accountability is mainly on the driver. However, it might also change based on the reasons for the pedestrian accident. So, let’s understand some of the common causes of pedestrian accidents.
Distracted Driving
Attention is significant, mainly while you are driving. If you are distracted while driving, then it can cause minor mishappenings or sometimes accidents. There are times when people try to multitask, which includes driving while talking, chatting, speaking on the phone, or even using GPS, which can sometimes lead to distraction. These distracted activities can lead to accidents because even a momentary loss of attention can lead to severe damage to pedestrians. Therefore, it would be better to drive cautiously while paying attention on the road.
Speeding
There are rules in states and federal laws that state that driving should be under a limit. It should not go beyond a limit that can harm other vehicles or even pedestrians. When you are moving at a high speed, it is difficult to react in any emergency. You have significantly less time to respond if someone comes in front of your vehicle because you lose control over it. In such cases, there would be collisions and also severe injuries, and therefore, it is better to avoid driving at a higher speed and maintain your speed limit.
Poor Lighting
It is the cause for which the driver is not directly responsible. If there are poorly lit areas, then both the parties, including the driver and the pedestrian. They would not be able to see the road correctly, and thus, the chances of accidents may increase. There would be situations when the drivers would not be able to see the pedestrians on the road, and in such cases, they need to be extra cautious, which makes it difficult for them to drive.
Drug Impairment and Alcohol
Drug impairment and driving with alcohol consumption are strictly prohibited in every law. It is because when you are under drug impairment, then you are not focused while driving, and thus, it can lead to loss of control while driving, and you may hit a person or any object. The impairment also reduces the reaction time, which makes it more difficult for you to navigate the upcoming car or the pedestrian on the road. Thus, it is highly advised that you should not drive when you have consumed drugs or alcohol.
Left-Hand Turns
It is also considered one of the essential causes of accidents. It poses a significant threat to pedestrians, so you need to be more cautious when taking left-hand turns. When there are intersection points, then the pedestrian might not notice the vehicle, and it might lead to a collision. Therefore, drivers and pedestrians are highly advised to be careful at intersection points.
