Collisions between pedestrians and vehicles are sometimes deadly and often life-altering. As the weather changes in Northern California and the earlier darkness makes seeing while driving more difficult, drivers are cautioned to take care when operating their motor vehicles. Their actions can prevent devastating accidents between automobiles and pedestrians and can save lives.
Following the rules of the road
At any time of year, regardless of the season, drivers should follow the traffic and operating laws of the state. That means following posted speed limits and signage, obeying traffic signals and signs, and respecting the right of way of pedestrians in crosswalks and other throughways. Simply doing what they are supposed to do while operating their vehicles can help drivers avoid collisions with pedestrians.
Another important way that drivers can keep pedestrians safe is by eliminating distractions from their vehicles. Too many accidents happen when drivers allow their phones, passengers, and other distractions to cloud their focus and prevent them from paying attention to the road. Distracted driving is dangerous and a cause of collisions throughout the nation.
Dealing with a devastating pedestrian accident
Care and conscientiousness should help drivers prevent accidents with pedestrians, but too many drivers allow negligence and recklessness to infiltrate their driving habits. When drivers disregard safe habits and allow themselves to lose focus, they can injure and even kill pedestrians on and near the streets where they operate.
A vehicle accident can leave a pedestrian with serious injuries, mental anguish, and financial losses. The scope of their pain and suffering may not be fully measurable at the time their injuries are sustained and their recoveries may endure for months or even years. Overcoming losses from a pedestrian-vehicle accident can be hard, and no victim should have to face their battle alone. Personal injury attorneys can support victims and guide them through their legal options and rights.