Few things are more enjoyable than getting out for a walk or a run and enjoying some fresh air. Whether it's for exercise, fun or as a mode of transportation to get from point A to point B, being a pedestrian is not always a safe endeavour. According to statistics provided by CDC, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 4 thousand fatal pedestrian crashes occurred in the United States in 2013.
While older adults and children are most at risk due to age, speed and agility, auto-pedestrian accidents can happen to us all when we least expect them. Unfortunately, we may be involved in an accident even after taking all necessary precautions such as looking both ways before crossing the street, wearing bright clothing when walking at night and only crossing at a crosswalk. Studies show that there are certain risk factors that significantly increase the likelihood of this happening such as driver and pedestrian impairment, increased speeds as well as driver and pedestrian distraction. Most pedestrian deaths happen at night, at non-crosswalk locations or in urban areas.
Being involved in any type of accident can have devastating consequences. However, auto-pedestrian accidents have a further complication. When there are two motor vehicles involved, they both have insurance to operate those vehicles but pedestrians don't typically have personal insurance to help them pay for financial loss and rehabilitation in the event of an accident. Hit-and-run accidents further complicate matters as there is no driver to assign fault.
There are laws to protect pedestrians and help them recoup costs for physical, psychological and financial damages. Pedestrians involved in an auto accident or families and loved ones of those involved in a fatal pedestrian accident may wish to seek legal counsel to explore all avenues for compensation available to them.