As our Raleigh, NC pedestrian accident lawyer can confirm, pedestrian accidents are some of the most devastating traffic incidents. Without the protection of a vehicle, pedestrians struck by cars often suffer severe or even fatal injuries. While many factors contribute to these accidents, one of the most significant and preventable causes is distracted driving. Understanding how distracted driving plays a role in pedestrian crashes can help victims protect their rights and highlight the need for greater accountability on the road.
What Is Distracted Driving?
Distracted driving occurs any time a driver takes their attention away from the road. This can be broken down into three main categories:
- Visual distractions – Taking your eyes off the road, such as looking at a phone, GPS, or scenery.
- Manual distractions – Taking your hands off the wheel to eat, adjust the radio, or reach for something.
- Cognitive distractions – Taking your mind off driving, such as daydreaming or being preoccupied with conversations.
Even a few seconds of distraction can be enough to miss seeing a pedestrian in a crosswalk or stepping off a curb.
How Distracted Driving Leads To Pedestrian Accidents
1. Missing Crosswalks And Signals
Drivers distracted by their phones or other activities may fail to notice pedestrians crossing at marked or unmarked crosswalks. A momentary glance away from the road can result in catastrophic collisions.
2. Delayed Reaction Times
Distractions reduce a driver’s ability to react quickly. If a pedestrian suddenly enters a crosswalk, a distracted driver may not brake in time to avoid a crash.
3. Running Stop Signs Or Red Lights
Many pedestrian accidents occur at intersections. Distracted drivers may roll through stop signs or run red lights without noticing pedestrians who have the right of way.
4. Parking Lot And Urban Dangers
In areas with heavy foot traffic—like school zones, shopping centers, and parking lots—distractions can make it difficult for drivers to spot pedestrians walking between vehicles or across busy entrances.
Who Can Be Held Liable?
In most cases, the distracted driver is liable for a pedestrian accident. Their negligence in failing to pay full attention to the road creates a strong basis for a personal injury claim. However, other parties may also share responsibility. For example, if a driver was distracted because of a faulty vehicle system or inadequate road signage, manufacturers or municipalities may also be involved.
Protecting Your Rights After A Pedestrian Accident
If you’ve been injured by a distracted driver, taking the right steps is crucial. Seek medical attention immediately, report the accident to law enforcement, and try to gather witness information and evidence at the scene if possible. Insurance companies may try to minimize your claim, but our skilled pedestrian accident lawyer can investigate the circumstances, prove the driver’s distraction, and pursue fair compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Distracted driving is one of the most dangerous and preventable causes of pedestrian accidents. By holding negligent drivers accountable, victims can not only secure the compensation they need but also help promote safer driving practices in their communities. At Burton Law Firm, we are here to help you.