In the entire year of 2014, there were 22 reported pedestrian fatalities in the city of Dallas, six more than the previous year. However, these numbers pale in comparison to the fact that we are only three-quarters of the way through 2015 and pedestrian deaths have surpassed previous yearly totals.
According to an article in the Dallas Observer, as of August 31, 2015, our city has already seen 31 pedestrian deaths. With three more months left in the year, and totals from September not yet reported, at this rate, we could very well see more deaths this year than the past two years combined.
The state of Texas has strict right-of-way laws. While many pedestrians assume that they always have the right of way, this is not always the case.
Following a pedestrian accident, whoever had the right of way at the time the incident occurred may be an important factor that affects liability. If liability is shared, then a claimant’s damages amount may be reduced.
Pedestrian laws are designed to keep everyone on the road—walkers and drivers alike—safe. That’s why following them is paramount. When you’re walking in Texas, make sure you adhere to these pedestrian laws to avoid pedestrian accidents.
In 2014, the state of Texas was ranked as the seventh most dangerous state for walking commuters in the whole nation according to the National Complete Streets Coalition at Smart Growth America, a nonprofit that advocates for neighborhood safety.
Often, when a vehicle hits a pedestrian, the injuries are both grave and permanent. TBI, or traumatic brain injuries, are common pedestrian injuries. If you’ve suffered a brain injury from a pedestrian accident then here’s what you need to know about filing your accident claim:
When a car hits a pedestrian, one of the most common injury types is a head injury. A head injury can occur when the pedestrian’s head hits the ground, causing trauma to the skull or/and the brain. If a car hits you and you need compensation for your head injury, here are some things you’ll need to consider.
Pedestrian accidents aren’t always the driver’s fault when a car is involved. Sometimes, a pedestrian’s own actions contribute to the occurrence of a collision. One thing that can affect liability and the ability to recover damages in a pedestrian accident claim is if the pedestrian was drunk at the time of the accident.
At the scene of an accident, the Dallas motorists, bikers, or pedestrians involved have a duty to stop and alert emergency services if there is an injury. The parties must also exchange contact information. If a motorist fails to do so and simply drives away from the scene of the accident, s/he is guilty of a hit and run.
If you now have injuries because of a pedestrian hit and run accident in Dallas, you are probably wondering how you will possibly recoup your expenses. Just because the motorist is missing, this doesn’t mean that the case is hopeless.
First, the police will do their part:
- Conduct an investigation
- Look for eyewitness statements
- Analyze surveillance camera footage
The media frequently spotlights the dangers of distracted driving. However, the disturbing new phenomenon of distracted walking is making headlines. Pedestrian inattention is an increasing problem, especially with the growing use of smartphone technology, and other forms of electronic media.
It is fairly common now to see pedestrians texting and walking, having conversations on their cell phones, or listening to music on their portable music devices. These are all very real dangers to pedestrian safety.
Pedestrians are some of the most vulnerable people on Dallas roads, given their complete lack of protection against serious injuries. Pedestrian accident injuries are wide in range and include everything from head and brain injuries that can be disabling or fatal, to fractures and broken bones.