Each year, an estimated 4,000 pedestrians in Connecticut and throughout the country die after being struck by motor vehicles. In some cases, these accidents are caused by electric or hybrid vehicles that are harder for pedestrians to detect because they make less noise. Although motorists are required to watch for pedestrians, they aren’t always at fault for collisions that may leave them injured or dead.
Pedestrians may put themselves at a higher risk for being involved in a collision when they don’t use dedicated crosswalks or other marked pathways. Individuals who are using a cellphone or other electronic device may be more likely to be involved in an accident. According to one study, 8% of pedestrian accident victims in New York City were using an electronic device when they were struck. Those who are planning on taking a walk at night are encouraged to wear bright clothes or to take a flashlight with them.
This is because it can be harder to see individuals at night while they are wearing dark clothing. Pedestrians who are impaired by alcohol could put themselves at risk of being involved in a fatal accident. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), 37% of pedestrians who were killed after being hit by a motor vehicle had a blood alcohol content of .08% or higher.
Individuals who have been hurt in pedestrian accidents caused by negligent motorists may be entitled to compensation for medical bills and other damages. If a person dies after being hit by a car or truck, that person’s family may file a wrongful death suit against the driver of that vehicle. Attorneys may be able to help those who have been impacted by an accident learn more about their rights and how to protect them.