Pedestrian Accidents Due to Distracted Driving

 Posted on December 16, 2023 in Car Accident

Distracted driving does not just take the lives of motor vehicle occupants. Recent statistics revealed that 644 pedestrians, cyclists, and other non-vehicle occupants died due to distracted drivers in a recent year

Distracted driving is anything that takes a motorist’s attention away from the road. It can include visual, cognitive, or manual distractions. When a motorist diverts their attention away from the road, the consequences are bound to be devastating for pedestrians.

If you or a loved one have been injured due to a distracted driver, a Fort Collins pedestrian and bicycle accident attorney may be able to assist you in recovering the compensation you deserve.

What is Distracted Driving?

Many motorists have a tendency to take care of other tasks while driving. When an individual is engaged in another activity and not giving complete attention to traffic conditions, this is a recipe for disaster.

Distracted driving comes in three forms: visual, manual, and cognitive. Any of the following activities constitute distracted driving:

• Texting and driving
• Eating and drinking
• Checking your email
• Applying make-up
• Changing the radio station
• Having conversations with passengers
• Using a GPS or other navigational system
• Looking after your children or pets

An Uptick in Pedestrian Accidents

With an increase in distracted driving comes an increase in pedestrian injuries and fatalities. Studies show that texting and driving is six times more dangerous than drunk driving

We do not always realize how dangerous distracted driving is for pedestrians, cyclists, and joggers. A driver who unwraps a fast-food sandwich will take his or her eyes off the road for about three seconds. That is enough time for 20 cyclists to pass by.

If a motorist is traveling at 60 miles per hour, once the individual applies the brake, it may take about 300 feet for the vehicle to come to a complete stop. A driver sending a text message, even for five seconds, may make the difference between life and death.

Tips to Stay Safe

Pedestrians can take the following steps to avoid being the victim of an accident:

• If possible, walk on the sidewalk
• If there is no sidewalk, walk against traffic
• Obey all traffic signs and signals
• Cross streets at designated crosswalks
• If your view is blocked, move to a place where you can see oncoming traffic
• Watch for cars exiting or entering driveways or backing up in parking lots
• Stay alert—avoid cell phone use and earbuds
• Wear bright clothing
• Carry a flashlight

Even if you take all precautions, distracted drivers can still hit you. When this happens, seek medical care and then immediately consult a Larimer County pedestrian accident attorney

Contact a Fort Collins, CO, Pedestrian Accident Attorney Today

Justice is only served when the party responsible for another’s injuries is held responsible. If you were injured due to a distracted driver, you can seek compensation for your medical expenses and lost wages, among other losses. Contact a Larimer County, CO, pedestrian accident attorney from Hoggatt Law Office, P.C. for a free consultation and to learn more. We are available online or at 970-225-2190.