Top Causes Of Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrian fatalities have risen once again to record levels, making our roads increasingly hazardous for those traveling outside of vehicles. This troubling trend highlights a sobering reality in our communities, where pedestrian accidents often occur due to factors such as negligent behavior, poor road conditions, and adverse weather. These hazards are perilous when they are combined. For example, a pedestrian could be walking home at night when a drunk driver misses a pothole and collides with the victim after losing control of their vehicle.

Navigating everyday hazards can be challenging, as everyone becomes a pedestrian at some point—whether walking from their car to a coffee shop, crossing the street, or waiting for a bus. Unfortunately, negligent individuals often expose others to potential dangers, making it crucial to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

Improving pedestrian safety requires collective effort. Local governments must provide proper infrastructure, while drivers must follow traffic laws, stay focused, and drive responsibly. Understanding the common causes of pedestrian accidents can also help reduce these preventable tragedies.

Leading Causes Of Pedestrian Accidents

Various factors contribute to pedestrian accidents. Often, motorists’ actions create dangerous situations. Environmental conditions can also increase the likelihood of a pedestrian getting injured or killed in an accident.

Because of these factors, pedestrians face a constant risk of danger. According to the National Traffic Highway Safety Administration (NHTSA), traffic crashes contributed to over 67,000 injuries and over 7,500 deaths among pedestrians in 2022. These alarming statistics highlight the urgent need to address the leading causes of pedestrian accidents.

How Driver Negligence Puts Pedestrians At Risk

Many accidents involving pedestrians happen because drivers do not prioritize road safety the most. This negligence can endanger other road users, even if they follow all the rules carefully. For example, you could be involved in an accident while walking peacefully on the sidewalk, where you would not expect to be hit by a car. In this case, one of the likely causes is the driver’s recklessness.

Driver negligence can lead to pedestrian injuries and fatalities. Some of the most common forms of negligence include:

Driving While Impaired

Driving under the influence (DUI) is one of the leading causes of traffic accidents involving pedestrians. In 2022, approximately one out of six traffic crashes resulting in pedestrian deaths involved a driver with at least a blood alcohol content level of 0.8, making them legally intoxicated. Many other drunk-driving accidents might not have led to fatalities, but they still caused injuries that may have forever changed the lives of victims and their families.

These statistics only include pedestrian deaths related to alcohol-impaired driving, but many DUI crashes involve drivers impaired by illegal drugs or medications, which can also compromise driving ability. Under the influence, drivers may struggle to think clearly, focus, and react quickly to traffic conditions, potentially missing pedestrians until it’s too late. Impaired drivers often lack complete control, leading to errors like failing to brake in time or oversteering, which can cause pedestrian accidents.

Fatigued driving is another significant risk, similar to the effects of alcohol and drugs. Exhaustion dulls the senses and slows reaction times, making fatigued drivers prone to mistakes that endanger pedestrians.

Speeding

Speeding accidents contributed to almost a third of traffic fatalities in 2022, making them some of the most dangerous risks pedestrians might face on the road. The faster a vehicle travels, the less time the driver stops and avoids a collision.

Higher vehicle speeds significantly increase the severity of pedestrian injuries and can be fatal. A study found that the risk of severe injury jumps from 10% at 16 mph to 50% at 31 mph and 90% at 46 mph. The risk of death is 10% at 23 mph, 50% at 42 mph, and 90% at 58 mph.

Even moderate speeds can cause significant harm upon impact. Imagine how much more dangerous it is for a pedestrian when a vehicle is speeding.

Distracted Driving

Distracted driving can have devastating consequences, yet many drivers underestimate the risks. Glancing at a phone, adjusting controls, or eating while driving can endanger both the driver and others, like pedestrians.

According to NHTSA, taking your attention off the road for 5 seconds at 55 mph is like driving the length of a football field blindfolded. During this time, a driver or pedestrian could overlook a hazard, which could lead to an avoidable accident.

Imagine walking across a crosswalk at a green light, and a driver texting doesn’t see you until it’s too late. The next moment, you’re lying on the ground and injured. This scenario is just one example of how distracted driving can lead to pedestrian injuries and fatalities. In 2022, over 600 pedestrians, pedal cyclists, and other non-vehicle occupants died in various distracted driving traffic accidents.

Reckless Driving At Intersections

Intersections are some of the most risky areas to navigate for pedestrians. Even if you follow all safety rules, like using the crosswalk and waiting for the crossing signal to turn green, you could get into an accident caused by reckless drivers.

Left-turn accidents, for example, are notorious for causing pedestrian injuries. A driver may focus solely on oncoming traffic, failing to check for pedestrians. In other cases, the driver might rush to make the turn, compromising your safety instead. A 45-year-old in San Diego sustained a head injury in the same way. He was hit on a crosswalk by a driver making a left turn.

Another common reason for intersection accidents involving pedestrians is the driver’s failure to yield the right of way. In general, pedestrians have the right of way, but not all drivers respect this. For example, some drive too fast and try to overtake a pedestrian who is already on the crosswalk, even though they should let the pedestrian cross safely.

External Factors Contributing To Pedestrian Accidents

Many pedestrians suffer from injuries and fatalities due to dangerous road conditions, either as the leading cause or a contributing factor. Some external issues that could lead to a pedestrian accident include:

Poorly Timed Traffic Lights

Pedestrian signals help people to move safely on busy roads. However, if they aren’t designed with pedestrians in mind, they can contribute to accidents instead. For example, if the timer ends too quickly, people may feel rushed when crossing the road. Some pedestrians then even stop on the road and are at the mercy of oncoming traffic.

The dangers posed by poorly timed signals are greatest on wider roads, but they’re also a major problem on narrower roads. This is especially true for certain groups who need more time to cross. Some examples are older adults, parents with children, and people with mobility impairments.

Unsafe Paths And Walkways

Pedestrians are confronted with various dangers, whether on the sidewalk, a street without a sidewalk, or a parking lot. For example, you could encounter the following risks when you’re out and about:

• Uneven Or Cracked Pavement — Uneven walkways can pose serious risks, especially for pedestrians using mobility aids. For example, crutches can easily catch on a raised section of pavement, causing someone to fall. Even those without physical disabilities are at risk of tripping or losing their balance on cracked or uneven surfaces.
• Obstructions — Hazards like overgrown trees, litter, or poorly placed business displays can make it challenging for pedestrians to navigate safely. In some cases, paths become completely inaccessible for certain individuals, like parents with strollers. Additionally, unsafe construction zones can obstruct walkways and put pedestrians at risk.
• Improperly Parked Cars — Vehicles can cause pedestrian accidents while moving and parked, especially if they block sidewalks or curb ramps. This is a common problem with rideshare services, causing Uber or Lyft accidents, as drivers often pay little attention to where they park when picking up or dropping off passengers.

As a pedestrian, encountering these obstacles can leave you in a tough spot. Do you step into the street and risk being dangerously close to traffic? Or do you stay on the sidewalk, where you might slip, trip, or fall?

Lack Of Proper Road Infrastructure

California’s roads are among the deadliest in the U.S. for pedestrians, largely due to infrastructure challenges and other contributing factors. A single mistake can result in a fatality—an extreme but preventable outcome. Jonathan Adkins, CEO of the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA), emphasizes the need for infrastructure designed to accommodate human error. After all, no one should lose their life simply for not using a crosswalk.

Cities and roads should prioritize the safety of all users, including pedestrians, drivers, cyclists, and others. Yet, in many areas across the U.S., pedestrian needs are often overlooked during mobility planning.

In some neighborhoods, sidewalks are nonexistent despite being essential for safe travel. You’ve likely encountered a sidewalk that suddenly ends, forcing you to walk on the street or navigate uneven terrain to reach your destination.

The lack of sidewalks has dire consequences. A 2021 GHSA report revealed that 69% of pedestrian fatalities occurred on roads without sidewalks—a 16% increase from 2020. This marked the fourth consecutive year of rising pedestrian deaths, underscoring the urgent need for safer infrastructure.

Road Hazards Due To Inclement Weather

Bad weather conditions create significant risks for both pedestrians and drivers. Rain, snow, and ice can make sidewalks and roads dangerously slippery, increasing the chances of pedestrians slipping and falling. These same conditions can cause drivers to lose control of their vehicles or struggle to stop quickly, raising the likelihood of hitting a pedestrian.

While pedestrians need to stay cautious in such conditions, drivers also have a responsibility to adjust their driving to account for slippery roads or reduced visibility. Additionally, government agencies and property owners must ensure the areas they oversee are safe. Neglecting this duty can result in injuries or even fatalities for pedestrians, who are already more vulnerable in poor weather.

Poor Street Lighting

Accidents are much more likely to happen at night due to reduced visibility, making proper street lighting essential for safety. Without adequate lighting, the risk of pedestrian accidents increases significantly.

For example, someone walking along a sidewalk with broken streetlights might not see a hazard in their path, causing them to trip and get injured. Similarly, a driver in a dark parking lot could become so focused on finding a space that they fail to notice a pedestrian walking nearby, leading to a parking lot accident.

The risk of pedestrian accidents is often influenced by a mix of factors, including the negligence of others. In many cases, someone can be held responsible for the accident, even if environmental conditions also play a role. If you’ve been injured as a pedestrian because of someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to hold them accountable. Contact our pedestrian accident attorneys to learn more about your rights and potential compensation.

Risk Factors In Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrians are already among the most vulnerable road users, accounting for 18% of all traffic fatalities in 2022. Unfortunately, several factors can make the risks even higher every time someone steps outside. Some of the key factors that can increase the chances of a pedestrian accident include:

Time Of Day

It’s easy to assume that nighttime is especially dangerous for pedestrians because of low-light conditions. However, it’s not just the lack of light that increases the risks for pedestrians after dark. According to NHTSA, more than half of pedestrian fatalities in 2022 occurred between 6 p.m. and 11:59 p.m. These hours coincide with risk factors, such as:

• High Traffic Activity — By 6 p.m., roads are often still packed with drivers heading home after work. In cities like Los Angeles, this falls right in the middle of rush hour, which can last from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. or even longer. The congestion can lead to drivers becoming more distracted or impatient, raising the risk of pedestrian accidents.
• Intoxicated Drivers — According to data from the NHTSA, fatalities involving impaired drivers are three times higher at night compared to during the day. This increase is often linked to people drinking alcohol in the evening and then trying to drive home while still intoxicated.
• Drowsy Drivers — It’s natural to feel tired at night due to our body’s internal clock. While fatigue itself isn’t always dangerous, problems arise when drivers are too drowsy to operate their vehicles safely. Drowsy driving is more common at night, as most people’s biological clocks make them more alert earlier in the day and ready to sleep by evening.

Age

According to NHTSA’s report, pedestrian accidents are one of the leading factors in traffic fatalities for individuals aged 60 to 64. In 2022, 23% of adults in this age range who died in traffic crashes were pedestrians. These individuals also had the highest number of pedestrian fatalities among other groups, with 694 deaths, which is tied with the 35-to-39 age group. Additionally, they have the highest fatality rate of 3.29 per 100,000 population.

Meanwhile, children aged 10 to 14 had the highest injury rate in pedestrian accidents among other age groups. Out of the 63,874 children in this age range injured in traffic crashes, 6% (3,846) were pedestrians. However, adults aged 25 to 29 had the highest pedestrian injuries at 6,130, making up 9%. They are followed closely by the 15-to-20 group with 5,946 cases (8.8%).

Several factors contribute to the varying fatality and injury rates among pedestrians. For example, younger and middle-aged adults are outdoors more often, running errands, socializing, and working. The increased exposure to traffic naturally raises the risk of being injured or killed in a pedestrian accident.

Meanwhile, older adults face unique vulnerabilities. Some might be slower when crossing the street or have difficulty accurately judging vehicle speeds, making it harder for them to navigate traffic safely. In addition, due to the natural physical changes that come with aging, they are more likely to suffer fatal or catastrophic injuries in a crash.

Location

Pedestrian accidents don’t just happen at random. They’re often tied to traffic flow, road design, and environment. Due to these factors, some risks are higher in particular locations, such as:

• Intersections — These places naturally see a high concentration of pedestrian accidents, especially during rush hours when vehicle and foot traffic peak. The 2022 NHTSA report also revealed that intersection accidents account for 16% of all pedestrian deaths.
• High-Capacity Roads — According to the GHSA, around 60% of pedestrian fatalities in 2021 occurred on roads with more traffic flow and higher speeds. These roads often run near retail stores, restaurants, and other commercial establishments. Unfortunately, the combination of high-speed vehicles and increased pedestrian activity creates a dangerous environment where accidents are more likely to occur.

Certain areas see higher accident rates due to increased pedestrian activity. School zones, for example, tend to have more pedestrians and vehicles during drop-off and pick-up times, raising the risk of accidents.

Why Are Pedestrian Accidents So Dangerous?

Pedestrian accidents are among the most devastating types of traffic accidents because pedestrians have little to no protection. Unlike vehicle occupants, who are protected by sturdy metal frames and airbags, pedestrians are fully exposed to the force of a vehicle weighing thousands of pounds. Even at low speeds, the impact can lead to serious injury or death.

The numbers paint a grim picture. In 2022, 7,522 pedestrians lost their lives in traffic crashes, a slight increase from 2021 and marking the highest death toll since 1981. An additional 67,336 pedestrians were injured in accidents in 2022, up 11% from the previous year.

These injuries can range from minor to life-altering, such as severe head trauma and spinal cord injuries. Many victims require surgeries, months of physical therapy, and prolonged recovery periods before they regain their everyday lives. In many cases, the injured individual must adjust to a new reality marked by permanently reduced mobility and a diminished ability to work.

Another factor that makes pedestrian accidents especially dangerous is the prevalence of hit-and-run accidents. In 2022, 24% of pedestrian fatalities involved hit-and-run drivers. These incidents could leave victims without immediate medical help, drastically reducing their chances of survival.

How To Avoid Pedestrian Accidents

The truth is that you can never control what other people might do or not do. Accidents happen, but it helps to be careful. Here are some tips to help you stay safe when you’re out and about on foot:

• Be mindful when crossing the street and use marked and designated crosswalks whenever possible. If you have to jog or speed up to beat the crossing signal, that means you’re cutting it too close. Wait for the walk signal at intersections with stop lights.
• Before crossing, watch out for moving vehicles in all directions, especially those turning left or right. Make eye contact with drivers as often as possible to make sure they know you’re crossing the road.
• Stick to sidewalks and designated paths for pedestrians when they are available. Watch out for vehicles coming out of parking lots, garages, or driveways.
• Stay alert while walking, no matter where you are. Stow your cell phone, and if you need to use earbuds, keep one ear free so you can still hear your surroundings.
• If you are out after sunset or in dark areas, wear bright, reflective clothing to be more visible to drivers. If you regularly walk, jog, or run at night, it can be useful to wear or attach an LED safety flasher to your clothing.
• Be careful, even if a driver stops to let you pass. A second vehicle in the next lane may not see you because the stopped car is blocking its view.

What To Do After A Pedestrian Accident

Being involved in an accident as a pedestrian can be traumatic, and you’re shocked, hurt, and don’t know what to do. However, it’s important to take the right steps to protect your health and preserve your right to compensation. Here is a helpful guide on what to do if you’re involved in a pedestrian accident.

1. Stay calm and check for injuries. If you can move, get out of the road to avoid further harm.
2. Call 911 for emergency help. Follow the dispatcher’s instructions.
3. Get the driver’s name, phone number, insurance policy details, and license plate number. If there are witnesses and other involved parties, collect their information.
4. Take photos and videos of the scene, including the vehicle that hit you, your visible injuries, road conditions, and anything else that could help investigators understand what happened and the extent of the damage.
5. Visit a doctor immediately, even if you think you’re fine. A medical evaluation ensures your injuries are correctly identified and treated.
6. Contact a lawyer who specializes in pedestrian accidents right away. An attorney can determine if you have a valid compensation claim and explain your next steps. If you are injured in an accident in California, feel free to contact our trusted personal injury lawyers at Arash Law. We offer free, confidential consultations and a “no-win, no-fee” guarantee.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pedestrian Accidents

Who Pays For Medical Bills After A Pedestrian Accident?

If a pedestrian is hit by a car, the driver is almost always considered at fault because pedestrians generally have the right of way in California. Drivers are expected to yield to pedestrians, and if they fail to do so and cause an accident, they could be liable for damages like medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. The driver can also be held responsible if the accident is caused by their negligence, such as distracted or impaired driving.

However, there are instances where the driver may only bear partial responsibility. Pedestrian accidents can also occur due to a tire blowout, construction hazard, or other external factors. In such cases, liability may also fall on third parties, such as:

• Car and auto parts manufacturer
• Local government
• Private property owner
• Construction companies

In most cases, the expertise of a pedestrian accident lawyer is needed to identify all potentially at-fault parties. At Arash Law, we take a comprehensive approach to determining liability, ensuring victims don’t miss out on all possible sources of compensation.

Can I Still Sue If I Was Jaywalking During A Pedestrian Accident?

Determining liability when a pedestrian jaywalks can be complicated because several factors come into play, including the specific laws in the area where the accident occurred. Jaywalking is crossing the street outside of designated crosswalks or against traffic signals. This behavior is technically illegal, which could lead you to believe that a jaywalker is automatically or solely at fault for an accident.

However, there are important nuances to consider. California’s Freedom to Walk Act, which took effect in 2023, decriminalizes crossing streets when done with due care. This law could impact how liability is apportioned between a pedestrian who crossed the street carefully and a reckless driver who hit the pedestrian. In many cases, a jaywalking pedestrian still has the right to sue if they were hit by a car.

It’s best to call lawyers specializing in pedestrian accidents who can explain the legal implications of your case. You also need legal representation if you’re being blamed for an accident that’s not your fault.

What Is The Average Settlement For A Pedestrian Accident?

No accident is identical. In other words, it is practically impossible to know what the average compensation for pedestrian accidents is. Many factors play a role in determining the final compensation amount, including the insurance policy, the nature and severity of the injuries, lost wages, which parties are liable, and others.

How Long Do I Have To File A Pedestrian Accident Claim?

The deadline for filing a lawsuit for a pedestrian accident is dependent on the statute of limitations. In California, for example, plaintiffs are given two years to file a personal injury lawsuit after an accident. While a couple of years seem like a long time, in reality, it’s not. Dealing with the legal process (such as gathering evidence and talking to insurers and other involved parties) on top of healing from your injuries can make this timeline feel exhausting and rushed. One benefit of hiring a lawyer is that they can file a lawsuit on your behalf, taking over all the legal tasks in the process.

What Evidence Do I Need To Win A Pedestrian Accident Case?

Key pieces of evidence include photos and videos of your injuries and the accident (including CCTV and dashcam footage, if available), your medical records, treatment plans, property damage receipts, witness statements, police reports, and documents showing lost wages due to the incident. Other evidence may be added to your case depending on your specific situation.

Do I Need A Lawyer If I Was In A Pedestrian Accident?

Yes, hiring a pedestrian accident attorney is wise, considering all the challenges you may face after getting injured. You may have to deal with a complex claims process, a pile of paperwork to complete before your deadline, and uncooperative parties, all while you’re trying to recover from your injuries. Furthermore, your hospital bills, treatment costs, and lost income due to missing work can quickly add up. You need a qualified attorney to help you seek damages through a personal injury claim.

Our attorneys for pedestrian accidents at Arash Law can handle all these and more on your behalf. We’re your allies throughout the process, doing everything we can to protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve. We’ll take care of:

• Determining who should pay you for your injuries.
• Calculating how much you’re owed.
• Gathering evidence and building a solid case.
• Filing an insurance or personal injury claim.
• Negotiating with insurance companies.
• Suing the other party, if necessary.

We’ve secured over $750 Million in compensation for our clients across different practice areas, including pedestrian cases. Some of our notable results include:

• $12,000,000 for a 74-year-old victim who was struck while crossing a street.
• $10,000,000 for a client who was run over by a speeding vehicle.
• $6,100,000 for a six-year-old pedestrian.
• $5,000,000 for a client who was struck by a large truck.
• $2,000,000 for a client who got injured while jaywalking at night.

Don’t wait to secure the justice and compensation you deserve. Let our team handle the legal tasks so you can focus on your recovery. Your case is in good and capable hands with our pedestrian accident lawyers.

How Much Does A Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Cost?

Generally, personal injury lawyers who work on pedestrian accidents don’t charge their clients unless they win a settlement for them. This is called a contingency fee agreement. In this arrangement, injured clients don’t need to pay their attorneys anything upfront, giving them the opportunity to seek fair compensation regardless of their financial status or background. During the onboarding process, lawyers will discuss the percentage they will get from winning the case. This amount is usually between 33% to 40% of the final settlement.

Need Expert Legal Representation? Call Our Pedestrian Accident Lawyers

Doing everything right is possible, but an accident can still happen instantly. After all, we cannot control other people’s actions on the road. However, you can choose who will represent you if you’re injured in a pedestrian accident. Hire a lawyer from one of California’s most prominent personal injury law firms for the best chances of success.

Led by Arash Khorsandi, Esq., our attorneys have decades of experience fighting for victims’ rights. From our car accident lawyers to pedestrian injury attorneys, we always pursue maximum compensation for our clients to ensure they have the means to rebuild their lives and manage any long-lasting or permanent effects of their injuries.

Our pedestrian accident lawyers are invested in your monetary recovery and physical healing. Our team can refer you to the top medical specialists and ensure you get the medical attention you need for your injuries.

Learn more about getting excellent legal representation without paying for anything upfront—call (888) 488-1381 for a free case review.