Pedestrian safety is a concern in Texas and communities throughout the country. A variety of laws are in place to help keep pedestrians safe, including legal protections for pedestrian accident victims.
The sad reality of pedestrian accidents in Texas
Pedestrian fatalities in Texas account for one out of five traffic fatalities. During 2019, there were nearly 6,000 crashes that involved pedestrians that resulted in 1,317 serious injuries and 669 deaths. The total number of pedestrian fatalities represented a 5% increase from the previous year. From 2015 to 2019, pedestrian fatalities from traffic accidents increased by 18%.
Some of the top causes of car accidents involving pedestrians in Texas include drivers speeding, driver inattention and drivers failing to yield the right-of-way to pedestrians. Pedestrians are exceptionally vulnerable on the roadways, as they lack protective equipment that motorists benefit from. Drivers can help keeping them safe by yielding the right of way to them, especially when they are turning; stopping for pedestrians at crosswalks; using causing when passing stopped buses or vehicles; and by paying attention while driving and putting cell phones away.
Legal protections for victims
When a negligent driver has injured a pedestrian in a pedestrian accident, it is helpful for victims to be familiar with personal injury legal protections that may be able to help them with their damages. Pedestrian accidents can result in severe injuries and damages can include physical, financial and emotional damages which can be significant. A claim for damages may be able to help victims with the long recovery process following a pedestrian accident.