According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, approximately 5,000 pedestrians are killed each year because of reckless or negligent drivers. Unfortunately, being a pedestrian is not always a safe mode of transportation because vehicular traffic is so dense. Without any protection in the event of impact, most pedestrians sustain serious injuries or are killed when involved in an accident with a car.

Staying Safe

Walking may seem like the safest way to get around because you are moving slowly and are generally walking on sidewalks that separate you from motorist traffic. Unfortunately, accidents involving pedestrians occur with alarming frequency. It is estimated that 70,000 pedestrians are injured in accidents each year. In order to stay safe while on a stroll, consider the following safety tips:

Always use crosswalks when they are available For intersections without crosswalks, make sure you cross at a corner and look both directions before stepping off the curb Teach your children how to properly cross roadways Do not use your cell phone when crossing intersections; especially text messaging Do not blast headphones while running along roadways, as this will prevent you from hearing potential hazards If walking at night, do not wear black Never try to cross highways

While the following tips do not guarantee accident prevention, they can greatly reduce your chances of being involved in a pedestrian accident.

Accidents and Liability

If you or someone you know has been involved in a pedestrian accident because of a negligent or reckless driver, you may have grounds for filing a legal claim. With the assistance of an experienced pedestrian accident attorney, you may be able to receive compensation for the following damages:

All related medical expenses Lost wages Pain and suffering Wrongful death of a loved one