If asked to come up with an image of a car accident, someone may understandably envision a crash between two vehicles. However, not everyone thinks a crash may exclusively involve a car and a pedestrian. Yet, many accidents in Maryland involve vehicles and people walking, jogging, or otherwise traveling on foot. Surprisingly, pedestrians may be at greater risk of getting hit by a car than two vehicles hitting one another.
Pedestrians and car accidents
Pedestrians need to follow the sage advice of being careful when crossing the street. The human body might suffer horrible injuries when hit by a car. Even a car traveling at a low speed might cause fatal harm. Anyone who spends even a slight amount of time walking near traffic may need to review a new study that adds further warnings about the dangers.
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety performed a study that noted pickup trucks and SUVs caused many pedestrian fatalities when making right and left turns. Sometimes, the driver makes the turn without looking or performing an illegal turn, such as not coming to a complete stop at a red light or stop sign.
The massive size of SUVs and pickup trucks could increase the chances of inflicting more harm to pedestrians. Still, a compact car could severely injure or kill a pedestrian.
Negligence and vehicle accidents
When a pedestrian suffers harm after an accident, an investigation may reveal the driver was at fault. Since pedestrian accidents might leave the victim with numerous bills and lost income, filing a lawsuit may be in the victim’s best interests.
Many automobile accidents end up settled with an insurance claim. Victims may need to appoint an experienced representative to handle settlement negotiations to receive just compensation.