Pedestrians are uniquely vulnerable to serious injuries in the event of an accident. Unlike the occupants of motor vehicles, people traveling by foot have no barrier or safety gear to protect them should they be struck by a negligent driver. For this reason, collisions between pedestrians and automobiles are often catastrophic if not deadly.
How Do Pedestrians Get Hit by Cars?
Pedestrian accidents can happen anywhere, but certain areas tend to be much more common. High traffic areas such as crosswalks are especially dangerous. A careless driver can easily seriously injure or kill a pedestrian if they are distracted or fail to yield. Parking lots are also a prime location for collisions between pedestrians and motorists as drivers tend to speed in these areas with high levels of foot traffic.
Pedestrians may be harmed by other hazards as well, not just negligent drivers. Construction areas often contain large holes, dangerous substances, and large, heavy equipment that could all potentially injured someone traveling by foot nearby. Defective machinery or equipment in areas where people walk past could also potentially cause harm.
