Colorado Springs police are growing increasingly concerned about the number of pedestrian fatalities in the community in 2021. So far this year alone, there have been 36 car accident fatalities and of those fatalities, a third involved a pedestrian.
Across the country, pedestrian accidents are also on the rise in many cities. In 2019 a pedestrian was killed in a car accident every 85 minutes, according to the NHTSA.
The reasons for pedestrian fatalities are numerous. Some fatalities are caused by distracted drivers or speeding drivers. Others are caused by pedestrians who simply do not look before they cross the street. However, safety officials believe that now is the time for both car drivers and pedestrians to work together to decrease the number of pedestrian accidents.
How Can You Avoid Deadly Pedestrian Accidents?
Drivers must be aware of their surroundings at all times. This means watching for pedestrians who might be sharing the road, including small children. Drivers can do their part by slowing down, putting away their phones, and paying close attention to the task of driving.
However, pedestrians can also do their part to prevent these serious and fatal accidents from occurring. Whenever possible, pedestrians should follow these safety tips for avoiding deadly accidents.
- Wear bright or reflective clothing when walking at night
- Always walk facing traffic when you must walk on the road
- Use sidewalks whenever possible
- Always cross at the crosswalk
- Wait for crossing signals before crossing the road
- Watch for other drivers who might be turning or running the light
- Put your phone down when walking and especially when crossing the street
- Avoid using earbuds or headphones when walking to remain alert to changes in traffic
- Never assume a driver sees you
- Avoid alcohol or drugs when walking
What Can You Do If You Are Hurt in a Pedestrian Accident?
If you get hurt in a pedestrian accident, remain calm. The steps you take after the crash can have an immediate and significant impact on your case. Chances are, someone called 911 immediately after your accident. Perhaps police and emergency medical teams arrived on the scene and took you to the hospital for treatment. This is the best-case scenario because it means that you got medical help quickly.
After you receive medical treatment, you can take the following steps to ensure that your rights to compensation are protected along the way.
- Avoid giving a recorded statement to insurance companies
- Call a pedestrian accident attorney immediately for a free consultation
- Avoid posting about your accident or injuries on social media
- Attend all therapy sessions and follow-up doctor’s appointments
- Keep detailed notes and journal about your pain and your recovery
- Keep all receipts, medical expenses, and prescription receipts
- Do not agree to anything without first speaking to an attorney
Contact Our Colorado Springs Pedestrian Accident Law Firm Today
If you or someone you love suffered an injury in a pedestrian accident, and you believe that someone else is to blame, call our law firm immediately. Contact the Green Law Firm, P.C. today by calling (719) 694-8515, or by filling out the contact form on this page, to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation and discuss your case.
