Drivers sometimes drive as if the road is only meant for cars and trucks. The truth, of course, is that it is also used by pedestrians and cyclists. Drivers need to respect these individuals’ rights and keep from putting them in danger. Everyone has a right to the road, from a jogger in a crosswalk to a dog walker on the sidewalk to a person just trying to cross the street on their way to work.
Unfortunately, many drivers fail to do this, causing accidents that leave people with severe injuries. Here are a few ways that they do it:
Drinking and driving
By some estimates, alcohol factors into nearly half of all deadly pedestrian crashes. One of the best ways for drivers to keep people safe is to refrain from driving under the influence. Naturally, this will help prevent many other types of accidents, as well.
Failing to watch for children
Children are often unpredictable and may make sudden, expected movements that adults wouldn’t make. Drivers need to be aware of this. They should use extra care when they see children near the road, even if there does not appear to be any problem at the moment.
Turning through crosswalks that people are using
Many light-controlled intersections will give pedestrians a walk symbol at the same time that drivers are allowed to make either right or left turns. Those drivers must check the crosswalks before turning. Instead, many just look for opposing traffic and turn blindly if they don’t see oncoming cars, forgetting that a pedestrian could still be in the road.
Forgetting that runners move quickly
When checking crosswalks, drivers need to look at the nearby sidewalks, as well. Joggers and runners move more quickly than people expect. If a driver doesn’t check and just begins pulling out of a parking lot or making a turn, they can strike a runner who is legally and properly trying to cross in front of them.
Have you been injured?
When drivers do not respect your rights, they can leave you with life-altering injuries. You must know about all of the legal options you have to seek financial compensation at a time like this.
