Drivers don’t usually get behind the wheel of a vehicle aiming to hit someone. Even so, negligent actions can result in a crash with a pedestrian or bicyclist, which can be devastating to the victim. What can drivers do to avoid these accidents?
Being alert is the main thing drivers need to do. Drivers should monitor the sides of the road, sidewalks and oncoming traffic to make sure no pedestrians or bicyclists are crossing the road in their paths. Drivers should step away from using cellphones or texting while driving, since this can lead to accidents due to looking away from the road.
Drivers should make sure to keep windshields clean and clear. What happens if a light shines and blocks a driver’s vision? He or she could cause an accident. For that reason, drivers should only drive when the windshield is clear.
Using headlights is also a good way to identify vehicles and for drivers to tell pedestrians and bicyclists about the presence of a vehicle. That way, pedestrians or bicyclists can decide if they have enough time to cross the street or enough time to pass before the vehicle gets too close to them.
In any case, pedestrian accidents can usually be avoided. If drivers slow down and signal, drive without distractions and aren’t intoxicated, the likelihood of hitting a pedestrian is going to drop dramatically. If you’ve been hit by a dangerous driver, you know that you’ve paid the price for his actions. Fortunately, you can still make a claim for compensation to pay for your needs during your recovery and beyond.
Source: Pedestrian and Bicycle Information Center, “Safety Tips for Drivers,” accessed Jan. 15, 2016
