According to the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration, there were 5,977 pedestrian deaths in 2017. That’s an average of one every 88 minutes! Including non-fatal accidents makes this figure much higher, in the hundreds of thousands. Given that we are all pedestrians at some point, we all are at risk for personal injury. Injuries can relate to vehicles or other sidewalk hazards. It is therefore important to be aware of pedestrian safety tips and to know how to receive compensation for pedestrian accidents in MA.

Pedestrian Safety Tips

Avoiding an accident should be your first priority. What can you do to stay safe? Here are a few practical tips:

  • Use designated crosswalks, especially on busy streets.
  • Obey crossing signals.
  • Make sure a driver sees you before crossing in front of a car. Look for obvious signs such as the driver coming to a complete street, making eye contact with divers, or receiving affirming gestures from drivers.
  • Wear bright or reflective clothing when walking during the evening or at night. Carry a flashlight if your clothing is not visible at night.
  • Beware of vehicles at driveway or parking lot entrances, particular when there are blind spots or on busy roads.
  • Pay attention to your surroundings. Many accidents relate to distracted pedestrians or drivers (i.e. using cell phones while walking).

If You Are Injured in a Pedestrian Accident…

If you are injured in a pedestrian accident, seek immediate medical attention. Some injuries may be obvious while others may not appear until much later. Early medical care can help detect injuries earlier rather than later. Gathering evidence from the scene is also important, although you may not be in a position to do so yourself. Consider asking an eye witness or a trusted friend/relative to help you with this. If another party is at fault, such as a driver, construction company, or owner of a building, you may seek compensation for your injuries.

Just Compensation for Pedestrian Accidents in MA

There are many different types of compensation for pedestrian accidents in MA, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and punitive damages. Your ability to obtain compensation is closely tied to how you pursue your case. This includes pursuing at-fault parties and/or their insurance companies, evidence provided, and the specific factors surrounding the accident. Insurance companies will pressure to accept a quick and low settlement, but this may not be in your best interests.

In any personal injury case, representation from an experienced personal injury attorney can make a world of difference. Your attorney will review your case and provide critical advice on the best approach. If you were injured in a pedestrian accident, contact Martino Law Group to schedule a consultation. We will work to protect your rights and to help you receive maximum compensation for your injuries.