Pedestrian accidents are becoming more and more common as time goes by, and the statistics for those being injured in crashes throughout the city and throughout the state of Arizona are becoming increasingly alarming. Around 10 people die in the total collisions that happen in Yuma each year and more than 915 are injured in addition, according to reports from the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT). And while these may represent all accidents, statewide pedestrian collision statistics are even more telling. Data indicates that more than nearly 160 pedestrians are killed and nearly 1,360 additional pedestrians are injured throughout the state each year in collisions with vehicles. Although these accidents, and the associated injuries and deaths, are on the rise and becoming more common, no victim feels that their accident in common.
Pedestrians, however, are common on the sidewalks and streets of Yuma, as are the excuses for hitting them: “I didn’t see the pedestrian,” “I didn’t have time to stop,” and “They stepped out in front of my vehicle.” Although these excuses are common and insurance companies may try to blame the victim for the accident, these are the five most common reasons that pedestrian-involved accidents truly happen.
A motorist is making a left-hand turn and does not pay attention to the pedestrian crossing light, or the fact that pedestrians have the right of way. Other motorists will try to navigate around pedestrians who are already in the road, and this frequently leads to incidents.
A pedestrian is either crossing or about to cross and the motorist makes a left turn, a right turn, or pulls forward through a stop sign. Drivers often maneuver too quickly at an intersection to beat the light. Sometimes they fail to check for pedestrians making their way across and collide into them.
Distracted drivers are frequently responsible for hitting pedestrians, especially those who are focused on texting or talking on their cell phones when they should be watching the road.
Drivers who run stop signs and traffic lights are common instigators in pedestrian-involved collisions. Any pedestrian who is about to walk out onto a crossing should double check to make sure that all oncoming vehicles are slowing down.
Speeding drivers frequently are unable to stop for pedestrians, even when the pedestrian has the right of way. These drivers, however, do not only cause pedestrian-involved collisions, but a large number of other accidents, too.
If you were hit by a negligent motorist, your first call should be to a skilled personal injury attorney who can help you get compensation for all damages including medical bills and lost wages.