Walking is a great way to stay healthy and get around a walkable city or town. People do plenty of sitting, so pounding the pavement can be a refreshing change of pace. However, one must always be on guard because pedestrian accidents can strike anytime.
Regardless of the kind of vehicle that hits a pedestrian, the damage is real, and injuries can last for months or years. Among other vital steps, enlisting the services of a Columbia pedestrian accidents attorney is of the utmost importance.
South Carolina Pedestrian Accident Statistics
Pedestrian accidents are on the rise across the nation, and South Carolina ranks among the most dangerous states when it comes to these kinds of accidents. According to a study by Smart Growth America, South Carolina is the third deadliest state for pedestrians. The data shows that nearly 20 people die daily from motor-vehicle-pedestrian accidents, with approximately 7,500 pedestrians killed yearly.
This data highlights the frequency and severity of pedestrian accidents in South Carolina. For those lucky enough to survive a pedestrian accident, it is crucial for them to speak with a pedestrian accidents lawyer in Columbia immediately. Doing so will help them get their life back on track.
For a free legal consultation with a pedestrian accidents lawyer serving Columbia, call 1-844-736-8342
Common Pedestrian Accident Injuries
When a pedestrian gets into an accident with a vehicle, the vehicle usually wins. There is no denying the fact that the human body is not built to sustain the impact of a two-and-a-half-ton piece of metal on four wheels. Not only are these vehicles much larger than the person they are colliding with, but they are moving at a far greater speed.
This makes it much harder for pedestrians to get out of the way, increasing the potential for severe damage. Even if a bike hits a pedestrian, the damage can still be significant because it is a metal structure moving quickly. Common injuries associated with these accidents include the following:
- Head Injuries: experiencing a head-on collision with a car or truck can cause a victim’s skull to crash into the front of the vehicle or its windshield. Various physical and psychological symptoms can come about following such an injury.
- Broken Bones: fracturing or breaking bones is typical of pedestrian accidents. When a pedestrian is struck by a vehicle, breaking an arm or a leg or dislocating a hip can happen.
- Back Injuries: like head injuries, spinal injuries can do a great deal of harm to a person. The spine plays an integral role in the body, and a severe injury can affect a person’s limbs.
Columbia Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Near Me 1-844-736-8342
Where Pedestrian Accidents Are Likely to Take Place
Pedestrian accidents can take place at any location and at any time. However, there are some commonalities to be aware of so pedestrians can protect themselves. Urban environments are more prone to pedestrian accidents due largely to the increased number of pedestrians.
Accidents involving pedestrians are also likely to occur at intersections not built for pedestrian traffic. The time of day is another factor to consider. Pedestrian accidents are likely to happen at night because it is harder for vehicles to see people in the dark, especially on roads with poor lighting.
Weather conditions can also affect visibility. If it is snowing, raining, or foggy, pedestrians are at a higher risk of being hit by a vehicle. A pedestrian accidents attorney in Columbia can be a great resource for those injured by a vehicle.
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What Typically Causes Pedestrian Accidents
It is clear how pedestrians are disadvantaged when involved in an accident, but what causes these accidents? Arguably the biggest contributing factor is distracted driving. Whether the vehicle being operated is a truck, car, or bicycle, pedestrians are at risk if the driver takes their eyes off the road.
Two additional causes of pedestrian accidents include speeding and driving while intoxicated. If the driver is moving at high speeds, it is much harder for them to hit the brakes and come to a stop. If they are driving while drunk or high, then that makes matters worse.
If they are distracted, speeding, and driving under the influence, nearby pedestrians are in serious danger.
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Steps to Take After a Pedestrian Accident
No one wants to be the victim of a pedestrian accident, especially if you are a pedestrian. However, it is essential to know what to do if faced with this unfortunate circumstance. Below are the steps one should take when in a pedestrian accident.
- Receive Medical Attention: pedestrians injured by a vehicle should not delay seeking medical treatment because their injuries may be severe or potentially fatal if untreated. Holding on to any medical reports, bills, and receipts is also important.
- Call The Police: speaking with the police is important because it is the first step in holding the negligent party accountable for their reckless and dangerous behavior. The police report will also prove useful when building a case with a Columbia pedestrian accidents lawyer.
- Speak With Witnesses: having witnesses’ accounts of what happened can benefit the injured pedestrian because this information can support what they said happened to them.
A Columbia pedestrian accidents attorney can help ensure all the appropriate steps are taken, so speaking with one as soon as possible is in the victim’s best interest.
Contact Shelly Leeke Law Firm for a Columbia Pedestrian Accidents Attorney
Victims of a pedestrian accident in Columbia need to speak with a Columbia pedestrian accidents attorney at the Shelly Leeke Law Firm.
For 15 years, our law firm has helped victims and their families move forward after an accident or injury. Victims may be trying to keep up with the bills and treatment associated with pedestrian accidents, but they do not have to go it alone. The smartest move a pedestrian accident victim in Columbia can make is to contact us.
Call or text 1-844-736-8342 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
