Pedestrian Accident
Everyone knows that walking is good exercise, and many people also lack other means of transportation. But taking a walk can sometimes leave a pedestrian vulnerable to an accident that causes serious injuries or even death. Just because you're on foot does not mean that you do not need to watch your back, because you can't rely on all drivers to obey the rules an exercise the caution that is needed. If you've been injured in an accident as a pedestrian, it is wise to consult with a pedestrian accident lawyer as soon as you can. This lawyer can help you get the compensation you need for your injuries.
Causes of Pedestrian Accidents
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There are many possible causes of pedestrian accidents. Usually, these accidents are caused by careless drivers who are speeding or who are under the influence of alcohol or drugs. However, there are issues related to a state's infrastructure that can also lead to pedestrian accidents. For example, there are areas along the road where lighting may be poor or there may not be an adequate crosswalk area for a pedestrian to cross the road safely. Traffic signals at intersections may not be properly timed in order to allow a pedestrian enough time to cross the street. Weather conditions such as fog or limited visibility can also lead to a pedestrian accident.
The Elderly Pedestrian
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Walking is an important form of exercise for those over the age of 65, but many of our senior citizens have special risk factors for becoming victims of a pedestrian accident. Some may have visual or hearing impairments while others may have impaired mobility or may be ambulating with a walker or cane. These people cannot anticipate oncoming trouble as readily as can a younger person, nor can they run away to escape. Besides, the kind of injuries that happen in a pedestrian accident may not be as easy for an elderly person to overcome.