Our Connecticut pedestrian accident lawyers discuss the problem
In the first two weeks of 2022, Hartford experienced two pedestrian traffic deaths, a number that is alarming to safety advocates.
In all of 2017, the city experienced two deadly road accidents involving walkers, joggers, or bicyclists. But the number of pedestrian accident fatalities in Hartford jumped to 10 in 2018, which was the most in decades.
Safety advocates and Hartford traffic officials expressed frustration over the rising number of deaths, according to the Hartford Courant, which published a report examining pedestrian fatalities occurring despite safety measures.
The city of Hartford has initiatives to reduce accident risks such as installing fluorescent yellow crossing signs to warn drives to slow down. Speed humps on residential streets have been installed, among other efforts.
Hartford is not the only city grappling with a rising number of pedestrian deaths. Citing U.S. Department of Transportation statistics, the Courant reports that deaths nationwide involving people on foot or riding bicycles have been on the rise.
How do pedestrian accidents happen?
People can get injured or killed walking, jogging, or while riding bicycles when drivers make careless or reckless choices. That’s why it’s critical for motorists to avoid distractions, share the road, and always get behind the wheel sober and clear-headed.
Causes of collisions with pedestrians include but are not limited to the following:
- Distractions such as texting and driving, talking on a phone, eating, self-grooming, adjusting the radio, etc.
- Impaired driving such as driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Speeding or reckless driving.
- Failure to follow traffic laws such as ignoring stop signs, making illegal U-turns, or not stopping for pedestrians in crosswalks.
Common locations for pedestrian accidents include:
- Parking lots where drivers are backing out of spaces or looking for an open space to park. They might not see a person on foot.
- Intersections where cars are turning sometimes as a pedestrian is attempting to cross the street.
- Roadsides or shoulders where pedestrians sometimes need to walk because there are no sidewalks.
What to do if you get hit by a car
Pedestrian accidents can lead to serious injuries such as concussions and other traumatic brain injuries, neck and back injuries, spinal cord damage, internal bleeding, broken bones, and more. These types of injuries can be devastating and even change a person’s life permanently.
Families who lose loved ones in accidents may not only mourn the loss but also face the real financial impact of their loved one’s death. The victim might have been the family’s only source of income.
If you were injured or a loved one died due to someone else’s negligence, you have the right to seek compensation for your losses. At the Law Offices of Mark E. Salomone & Morelli, our dedicated legal team has the knowledge, experience, and resources to handle every aspect of your claim and fight for every dollar you deserve.
To find out how we can help with your potential legal case, contact us today for a free consultation with an experienced Connecticut pedestrian accident attorney. Tell them you mean business!